Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
On December 5, 2022, Ontario published a news release discussing trade opportunities with India and its success in bringing investment to Ontario. The province of Ontario promoted its strengths to attract investment and increase exports in critical areas.
The Ontario government has returned from a successful trade mission to India to improve partnerships with economic partners and attract new investments in essential industries like manufacturing, technology, and life sciences.
Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade, Vic Fedeli led the mission, which resulted in renewed commitments to collaborate with the states of Maharashtra and Telangana, as well as an announcement by 88 Pictures, a Mumbai-based animation and media entertainment company, to expand to Ontario.
“Ontario and India have a long history as economic partners and friends, and our government is proud to be back in India to build on that relationship,” said Minister Fedeli. “We continue to drive long-term economic growth by attracting investments and creating opportunities, while promoting the province as a leading destination for international investment.”
Ontario’s initiative to bring new investment from India
With over 900,000 residents of Indian descent, Ontario has the highest Indian population in the entire country; obvious, it is the largest . In addition, more than 75,000 international students from India are enrolled in colleges and institutions in Ontario.
From November 25 to December 2, 2022, Ontario’s delegation visited major companies in India to promote the province as a worldwide innovation hub and a great investment area.
It featured a meeting with 88 Pictures, which declared, along with Toronto Global, that Ontario would be the first destination for the company’s international expansion. Over the next two years, this investment will create 150 new employment in Ontario.
The other highlights were meetings with HCL Technologies, Motherson Sumi, Jubilant Bhartia Group, Larsen & Toubro, ITC Infotech, Essar, Tata, and ICICI.
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Job opportunities that investment from India will create
Trade in both directions between Ontario and India was worth $3.7 billion in 2021. Over 40 Ontario companies have a presence in India, while 69 Indian businesses are active there.
India’s significant recent investments in Ontario include:
- Infosys, which plans to add 500 new jobs nationwide by 2024;
- HCL, plans to hire more than 2,000 new workers nationwide by 2024, including more than 1,000 in Mississauga;
- Tata Consultancy Services, which opened its fifth global innovation hub in Toronto and will add 5,000 new jobs and 100 new internships nationwide;
- L&T Technology Services, which recently announced plans to open an engineering and R&D center in Toronto;
- And Zoho, which recently launched in Cornwall, Ontario.
To draw in and expedite investment negotiations, aid small and medium-sized businesses in increasing their export capability, and publicize the province’s Open for the Business mandate, Ontario has trade and investment offices in cities like New Delhi and Mumbai.
Ontario remains dedicated to using cutting-edge strategies to build on its advantages and promote the province as a desirable place to conduct business.
India and Ontario business expansion initiative
The Ontario delegation also participated in the Mumbai Business Forum of the Canada-India Business Council and the annual conference of the Indo-Canada Business Chamber to highlight the province’s position as a global innovator.
Additionally, the delegation hosted a roundtable with innovative companies based in India to discuss their global growth and expansion strategies.
The province of Ontario also updated its long-standing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Indian states of Maharashtra and Telangana as part of the trade trip.
The new MOUs will promote ongoing cooperation on significant projects in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, media, and entertainment. All three jurisdictions will be able to continue to develop and innovate due to this timely renewal.
As a result, the province remains one of the most competitive regions for businesses to invest in and grow because of its skilled workforce, cutting-edge research and development facilities, award-winning manufacturing, and access to a wealth of essential materials.
Source: Government of Ontario
- 5 New British Columbia Laws and Rules in August 2026
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
British Columbia has already rolled out its most significant consumer protection overhaul in years in August 2026.
Subscription contracts, door-to-door sales, and online purchase agreements all face new provincial rules that took effect on August 1.
The 2026-2027 StudentAid BC loan year opened on August 1 with tighter limits on who qualifies for grants at private schools.
A provincial income tax rate change that took effect retroactively to January 1 continues to shift take-home pay for workers across the province.
One immigration deadline still lies ahead, as the BC PNP’s one-time rural health support pathway closes on August 31.
This guide covers every major provincial rule, deadline, and change that has taken effect or is still coming in British Columbia during August 2026.
Table of Contents
Quick Look: Every August 2026 BC Change
The table below summarizes each change, its effective date, and who it affects in British Columbia.
Date Change Who it affects Aug 1 ✓ Consumer protection overhaul now in effect Businesses and consumers Aug 1 ✓ StudentAid BC 2026-27 loan year now open Post-secondary students Aug 1 ✓ Federal student grants continue at raised levels BC students Aug 1 ✓ BC income tax rate mid-year payroll shift active All BC workers Aug 31 BC PNP rural health support registration closes Health authority workers 1. Major Consumer Protection Overhaul Now in Effect
The amendments came from BC Bill 4, which received royal assent in 2025.
A first tranche of changes took effect that year, banning mandatory arbitration clauses, class action waivers, and restrictions on consumer reviews.
The second tranche took effect on August 1, 2026, and rewrites how businesses handle subscriptions, direct sales, and consumer contracts across the province.
Consumer Protection BC has published detailed guidance for businesses preparing for these changes.
New subscription rules
The amendments now apply to subscriptions in the digital, fitness, home services, and broader consumer space.
Businesses must give consumers advance notice before automatic renewals.
Consumers must receive meaningful cancellation rights that are easy to use.
Suppliers lose the ability to unilaterally change subscription terms when the change increases a consumer’s obligations.
The same applies when a change reduces what the supplier must deliver.
Anyone running a gym membership, streaming service, meal kit, or software subscription in BC should audit their renewal notices and cancellation flows now that the rules are active.
New restrictions on direct sales
Direct sales of prescribed household products like furnaces and air conditioners are now subject to specific restrictions.
The rules also ban offering or arranging credit during these direct sales.
The changes target high-pressure door-to-door tactics that have long affected seniors, newcomers, and lower-income households across BC.
Certain exemptions exist for regulated direct sellers, temporary locations, and situations where the consumer invited the seller.
Businesses involved in door-to-door or in-person consumer sales should not assume a blanket prohibition and should review the regulation carefully.
Standardized contract terms
All consumer contracts, including online and in-person agreements, must standardize refund, return, exchange, and cancellation policies under the new rules.
Key terms must be clearly disclosed up front and presented consistently across all sales channels.
Businesses should expect increased scrutiny of any gap between pre-contract disclosures and the final contract a consumer receives.
Who needs to act now that the rules are live: Any business offering subscriptions, online consumer services, home-service contracts, or direct sales in BC. Review contract templates, renewal notices, cancellation processes, employee training, and financing practices. Non-compliance may lead to enforcement action from Consumer Protection BC.
2. StudentAid BC 2026-2027 Loan Year Now Open
StudentAid BC applications for the 2026-2027 program year are open for studies starting between August 1, 2026 and July 31, 2027.
Several changes affect which students can access provincial and federal grants through the StudentAid BC application.
Provincial grant restrictions
BC provincial grants are now generally limited to students at public postsecondary institutions in British Columbia.
The BC Access Grant, BC Supplemental Bursary, and BC Access Grant for Students with Disabilities are all restricted to students at BC public schools.
Students at private institutions located outside BC are not eligible for the BC Student Loan.
The BC Access Grant for Deaf Students continues to be available for eligible students attending approved schools outside Canada.
Federal grant changes flowing through StudentAid BC
The federal Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students remains at its raised level of up to $4,200 per year for BC students through July 31, 2027.
Most students at for-profit private schools lost eligibility for this specific federal grant as of August 1.
Exemptions apply only for programs training nurses, early childhood educators, dental hygienists, or paramedics.
BC can apply the exemptions at the individual program level, unlike most other provinces.
Students at for-profit international schools have lost access to both provincial and federal student financial assistance.
A train-out provision may protect some returning students already receiving aid until July 31, 2029.
3. BC Income Tax Rate Change Continues to Shift Pay
British Columbia raised its lowest personal income tax rate from 5.06% to 5.60% for the 2026 taxation year.
The change is retroactive to January 1, 2026, which means the July T4127 payroll deduction tables use a prorated rate of 6.14% for the final six months of the year.
BC workers may notice a slightly smaller net pay compared to the first half of 2026.
The catch-up effect is largest in July and August as employers apply the new withholding.
Workers should review their first August pay stub to verify the updated withholding has been applied.
4. BC PNP Rural Health Support Registration Deadline
The BC Provincial Nominee Program is accepting registrations for the Temporary Rural/Remote Health Support Initiative until August 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
This is a one-time pathway with a hard cap of 250 nominations.
It targets cleaning and security workers who are direct employees of a BC public health authority in a rural or remote community.
Eligible occupations
- Janitors, caretakers, and heavy-duty cleaners (NOC 65312)
- Light duty cleaners (NOC 65311)
- Security guards and related security service occupations (NOC 64410)
Key requirements
Applicants must have been working full-time with the same health authority for at least nine consecutive months before registering.
Workers employed through private contractors serving a health authority do not qualify.
Each health authority determines its own process for selecting which applications it will support.
The initiative sits within the BC PNP’s Skills Immigration stream and does not include an Express Entry BC option.
Given the hard cap and strong interest, eligible workers should prepare documentation and register well before the August 31 deadline.
5. BC Rent Increase Cap Applies to August Renewals
The maximum allowable rent increase for residential tenancies across British Columbia in 2026 is 2.3%.
This cap applies to every residential tenancy covered by the Residential Tenancy Act, including apartments, condos, and secondary suites.
Landlords can increase rent only once every 12 months and must give at least three full months of written notice using Form RTB-7.
A landlord serving an increase notice this month can raise rent no sooner than December 1, 2026.
The 2.3% cap holds even if a landlord’s costs rose by more than that amount.
Tenants can dispute any increase above the limit through the Residential Tenancy Branch.
5 New British Columbia Laws and Rules in August 2026 BC Rules Already in Effect That Readers May Confuse With August Changes
Several major BC changes arrived earlier in 2026 and are already active.
- BC’s general minimum wage increased to $18.25 per hour on June 1, 2026, and remains at that level.
- The Health Professions and Occupations Act replaced the old Health Professions Act on April 1, 2026.
- The Gaming Control Act took effect April 13, 2026, overhauling gambling industry oversight.
- ICBC basic auto insurance rates remain frozen with no increase through spring 2027.
- Vancouver’s Empty Homes Tax declaration deadline and payment deadline both passed earlier in 2026.
None of these are new August rules, but they continue to apply throughout the month.
August 2026 has delivered fewer headline-grabbing laws than some recent months in British Columbia, but the changes already in effect are consequential.
The consumer protection overhaul is the standout change and now affects any business selling to consumers in the province.
Students should confirm their StudentAid BC eligibility before the fall semester, especially anyone attending a private institution.
Health authority workers in rural BC still have time to act on the BC PNP pathway, but the August 31 deadline closes permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the biggest new BC law taking effect in August 2026?
The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act amendments are the largest provincial change on August 1. They overhaul how subscriptions auto-renew, restrict high-pressure direct sales of household products like furnaces, ban credit offers during door-to-door sales, and standardize refund and cancellation policies across all consumer contracts in British Columbia.
Does the StudentAid BC for-profit school change affect all grants and loans?
No, the restriction primarily affects the Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students for students at for-profit private schools. Other federal grants and interest-free Canada Student Loans remain available. BC provincial grants are separately limited to students at public BC institutions. Exemptions exist for nursing, dental hygiene, early childhood education, and paramedic programs at for-profit schools.
Who qualifies for the BC PNP Rural Health Support pathway before the August 31 deadline?
Only direct employees of a BC public health authority working in cleaning or security roles in a rural or remote community. The three eligible NOC codes are 65312, 65311, and 64410. Applicants need at least nine consecutive months of full-time work with the same health authority. Workers employed through private contractors do not qualify, and the pathway is capped at 250 nominations.
Can my landlord raise rent above 2.3% in BC in August 2026?
No, the 2026 cap of 2.3% applies to all residential tenancies under the Residential Tenancy Act, with no exceptions for newer buildings. Landlords must use Form RTB-7, give three full months of notice, and can only increase rent once every 12 months. Tenants can dispute any amount above the cap through the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Did BC’s minimum wage change in August 2026?
No, British Columbia’s general minimum wage increased from $17.85 to $18.25 per hour on June 1, 2026, not in August. The $18.25 rate is the highest provincial minimum wage in Canada and remains in effect through the rest of 2026.
Fact check: Every date and figure was checked against BC Laws, Consumer Protection BC, StudentAid BC, the BC PNP Skills Immigration Program Guide, and official BC government sources current to August 1, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Additional BC regulations may be registered through the B.C. Gazette later in August.
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New Express Entry Draw On August 5 Sent 3,000 PR Invitations
New Ontario-OINP Permanent Residence Pathway Intake Is Now Open
- New Express Entry Draw On August 5 Sent 3,000 PR Invitations
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada issued 3,000 invitations to apply for permanent residence through a Canadian Experience Class draw on August 5, 2026.
This is the second Express Entry draw of August and the 44th draw of 2026, arriving one day after the PNP draw on August 4 that opened the month’s first draw cluster.
The 3,000 invitations mark a 50% increase from the 2,000 issued in each of the last two CEC rounds in July, signalling that IRCC may be adjusting volumes upward as the second half of 2026 progresses.
Here is a full breakdown of the draw results, how the CRS cutoff compares to previous CEC rounds, and what this means for candidates still in the Express Entry pool.
Table of Contents
August 5 CEC Draw Details
Detail Value Draw type Canadian Experience Class Invitations issued 3,000 CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate 516 Date and time of round August 5, 2026, at 10:41:26 UTC Tie-breaking rule July 3, 2026, at 21:35:13 UTC The CRS cutoff of 516 matches the July 21 CEC draw exactly and falls within the narrow 514 to 518 band that has defined CEC rounds since April 2026.
Despite a 50% increase in invitations from 2,000 to 3,000, the cutoff did not move, confirming that the Express Entry pool continues to replenish with high-scoring CEC-eligible candidates at a rate that absorbs higher volumes without pushing scores down, a dynamic consistent with our August 2026 predictions.
The tie-breaking date of July 3, 2026, means that candidates who scored exactly 516 needed to have submitted their Express Entry profiles before that date and time to receive an invitation in this round.
How This Draw Compares to Previous CEC Rounds
The table below tracks every CEC draw in 2026, showing how invitation volumes have fluctuated while CRS cutoffs have remained remarkably stable.
Date ITAs CRS Cutoff Jan 7 8,000 511 Jan 21 6,000 509 Feb 17 6,000 508 Mar 3 4,000 508 Mar 17 4,000 507 Mar 31 2,250 509 Apr 14 2,000 515 Apr 28 2,000 514 May 27 3,000 518 Jun 23 4,000 516 Jul 7 2,000 517 Jul 21 2,000 516 Aug 5 3,000 516 CEC invitation volumes have ranged from 2,000 to 8,000 across 2026, with CRS cutoffs holding between 507 and 518 regardless of the volume issued in any given round.
This stability reflects a consistent inflow of new high-scoring profiles entering the pool at roughly the same rate that invitations remove them, as explained in our analysis of CRS trends in 2026.
The return to 3,000 invitations after two consecutive rounds at 2,000 mirrors the pattern from May 27, when IRCC similarly bumped CEC volumes to 3,000 after a period of lower issuance.
Whether this signals a sustained increase or a one-round adjustment will become clearer when the next CEC draw is held, which based on the 2026 cluster pattern is expected in the third or fourth week of August.
What a CRS Cutoff of 516 Means for Candidates
A CRS score of 516 without a provincial nomination typically requires a strong combination of age, education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience.
Under the CRS calculation grid, a 30-year-old candidate with a master’s degree, CLB 10 in English across all four skills, and three years of Canadian skilled work experience would score approximately 506 to 516 depending on additional factors such as a second language or arranged employment.
Candidates scoring in the 480 to 510 range should evaluate whether they qualify for category-based draws targeting French-language proficiency, healthcare, trades, or other occupations, as these categories consistently deliver cutoffs well below the CEC threshold.
French-language draws have issued CRS cutoffs between 393 and 420 across eight rounds in 2026, meaning a TEF or TCF result at NCLC 7 or higher opens a pathway roughly 100 points below the CEC cutoff.
Provincial nominations remain the most powerful CRS multiplier, adding 600 points and effectively guaranteeing an invitation in the next PNP draw.
Updated 2026 Invitation Totals
The August 5 CEC draw brings the total number of Express Entry invitations issued in 2026 to 108,123 across 44 draws.
CEC-specific invitations now total 48,250 across 13 draws, representing 44.6% of all invitations issued this year and firmly establishing CEC as the dominant Express Entry pathway in 2026.
Category Draws Total ITAs Share Canadian Experience Class 13 48,250 44.6% French-Language Proficiency 8 40,500 37.5% Healthcare and Social Services 2 8,000 7.4% Provincial Nominee Program 15 6,957 6.4% Trades Occupations 1 3,000 2.8% Senior Managers 2 750 0.7% Physicians 2 662 0.6% Skilled Military Recruits 1 4 < 0.1% Total 44 108,123 100% The 2026 total of 108,123 is now within striking distance of the 113,988 invitations issued across all of 2025, with nearly five full months of draws remaining.
CEC and French-language draws together account for over 82% of all invitations in 2026, confirming that these two pathways continue to drive the Express Entry system.
August Draw Cluster Update
The August 5 CEC draw is the second draw in the month’s first cluster, following the PNP draw on August 4 that issued 507 invitations at CRS 768.
If IRCC follows the same cluster pattern seen in July, a French-language proficiency draw is expected within the next one to two days, completing the core three-draw cluster.
Recent French rounds have issued between 4,000 and 5,000 invitations at CRS cutoffs ranging from 393 to 420, though a modest reduction in volume is possible given that IRCC has already issued 108,123 invitations across the first seven months of the year.
A fourth draw targeting a smaller category such as trades, healthcare, or senior managers could also appear in this cluster but has not been a consistent feature of every draw window.
IRCC does not publish a guaranteed draw calendar, and draw dates, categories, and volumes can change without notice.
What Invited Candidates Should Do Now
Candidates who received an invitation have exactly 60 calendar days to submit a complete permanent residence application through their Express Entry account.
Police certificates, medical examinations, educational credential assessments, and employment reference letters should be gathered immediately because each document carries its own processing timeline.
If the 60-day window passes without a submission, the invitation expires and the candidate’s profile returns to the Express Entry pool with their original CRS score.
CEC permanent residence applications currently carry an average processing time of approximately six to seven months, meaning candidates who submit their applications in August can expect a decision in early to mid-2027.
The August 5 CEC draw confirms that IRCC is maintaining the cluster model while showing flexibility on invitation volumes, with the jump from 2,000 to 3,000 invitations being the most notable signal from this round.
A French-language draw is expected to follow within the next day or two, completing the first August cluster.
Candidates should monitor the official IRCC rounds of invitations page for confirmed results as they are published.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did the CRS cutoff stay at 516 despite more invitations being issued?
The Express Entry pool constantly replenishes as new candidates create profiles and existing candidates update their scores. When the inflow of high-scoring candidates matches or exceeds the number removed by invitations, the cutoff remains stable even as IRCC increases volumes. This equilibrium has held since April 2026, with CRS cutoffs staying between 514 and 518 across rounds ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 invitations.
Who is eligible for CEC draws specifically?
CEC draws target candidates who have at least 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada within the three years before their permanent residence application. The work experience must be in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation and must have been gained while the candidate held valid work authorization in Canada. Candidates must also meet minimum language requirements of CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0 and 1 occupations or CLB 5 for NOC TEER 2 and 3 occupations.
Can I improve my CRS score before the next CEC draw?
The highest-impact CRS improvements include retaking IELTS or CELPIP to achieve a higher language score, obtaining a provincial nomination for a 600-point boost, completing an additional Canadian credential, or gaining additional Canadian work experience. Even a one-band improvement in a single language skill can add 15 to 30 CRS points depending on the candidate’s overall profile. Booking a TEF or TCF French test opens eligibility for French-language draws at CRS 393 to 420, a significantly lower threshold than the CEC cutoff of 516.
When is the next CEC draw expected?
Based on the 2026 draw cluster pattern, the next CEC draw is expected in the third or fourth week of August as part of a second draw cluster. IRCC has conducted two CEC draws per month in every month of 2026 except May, which had only one CEC round, as tracked across the full 2026 draw history. The volume and CRS cutoff of the next CEC draw will depend on pool dynamics and IRCC’s operational targets for the second half of the year.
Does receiving an invitation guarantee permanent residence?
An invitation to apply is not an approval, and receiving one does not guarantee that the permanent residence application will be accepted. IRCC reviews every submitted application against the eligibility criteria, verifies supporting documents, conducts background and security checks, and can refuse applications that do not meet the requirements. Submitting a complete, accurate application with all required documents within the 60-day window gives candidates the strongest possible foundation for a positive decision.
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New Ontario-OINP Permanent Residence Pathway Intake Is Now Open
- New Ontario-OINP Permanent Residence Pathway Intake Is Now Open
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
Ontario has just reopened the door for thousands of skilled workers and essential employees seeking permanent residence in the province.
The province’s immigration authority confirmed the launch on August 4, 2026, marking a milestone that candidates have been waiting for since late June.
This opening follows the single largest structural overhaul in the history of Ontario’s provincial nominee program earlier this summer.
Every former immigration stream has been permanently retired, and a completely new framework has taken its place.
Candidates who were monitoring the program closure now have a confirmed date to act on, and the registration window is officially live.
The details below cover exactly what changed, who qualifies, how the new scoring works, and what steps you need to take right now.
Table of Contents
What Changed in Ontario’s Immigration Program
The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development has opened the expression of interest portal for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program’s new Ontario Workforce Priority stream.
This stream is the product of Phase 1 of a two-phase redesign that replaced all eight former OINP streams effective June 26, 2026.
The regulatory changes were made through amendments to Ontario Regulation 422/17 under the Ontario Immigration Act, 2015.
Ontario eliminated every existing pathway and consolidated them into a single employer-driven framework with three distinct tracks.
The EOI system had been closed to new registrations since June 25, 2026, and all previously submitted EOIs that did not receive an invitation were withdrawn.
Candidates and employers can now register fresh expressions of interest under the new rules starting today.
Three Pathways Under the New Ontario Workforce Priority Stream
The Ontario Workforce Priority stream operates through three distinct pathways based on your occupation classification under the National Occupational Classification system.
Each pathway has its own language, education, and work experience requirements tailored to the skill level of the position.
The following table summarizes the core eligibility criteria across all three pathways.
Requirement TEER 0-3 Pathway TEER 4-5 Pathway Self-Employed Physicians Job Offer Required (full-time, permanent) Required (full-time, permanent) Not required Language (CLB) CLB 6 (CLB 5 for skilled trades) CLB 4 Not required Education Post-secondary degree/diploma (1+ year) or high school for skilled trades Canadian high school diploma or equivalent Not required Work Experience 6 months consecutive, 3 months for recent Ontario grads, or 2 years cumulative 9 months cumulative in last 2 years Not required Express Entry Option Yes No Yes All three pathways require candidates to demonstrate an intention to live and work in Ontario after receiving permanent residence.
Self-employed physicians must hold a valid OHIP billing number and a certificate of registration from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario to qualify without a job offer.
How the Expression of Interest System Works
The EOI system is the gateway to the Ontario Workforce Priority stream, and registering is now the mandatory first step for all applicants.
Employers must first register their business in the Employer Portal and submit a job offer before candidates can register an EOI.
Once the employer submits the job offer, the candidate receives a job offer ID by email and has 30 calendar days to register their EOI.
If the candidate does not register within that 30-day window, the job offer expires and the employer must submit a new one.
There is no fee to register an expression of interest under the Ontario Workforce Priority stream.
Each EOI registration remains valid for 12 months in the selection pool unless the candidate receives an invitation or withdraws.
Registering an EOI does not guarantee an invitation to apply, and an invitation does not guarantee a nomination for permanent residence.
Work Experience Requirements by TEER Level
The work experience threshold varies based on whether your job offer falls under TEER 0 to 3 or TEER 4 to 5 occupations.
Candidates with a TEER 0 to 3 job offer must meet one of four possible work experience options to qualify.
The first option requires at least six months of consecutive, paid, full-time work experience in the same job offer position within the past 12 months.
Recent Ontario graduates can qualify with just three months of consecutive experience in the job offer position within the past 12 months.
The third option accepts two years of cumulative, paid, full-time experience in the same NOC occupation within the past five years.
The fourth option applies when the position requires a mandatory licence or authorization under Ontario or Canadian law to perform the work.
Candidates with a TEER 4 or 5 job offer must have at least nine months of cumulative, paid, full-time experience in the same position within the past two years.
Transport truck drivers and bus drivers under NOC 73300 and 73301 must meet the six-month consecutive requirement even if they hold a mandatory licence.
Language Requirements and Accepted Tests
Language proficiency is measured using the Canadian Language Benchmark scale, and the minimum threshold depends on your TEER level.
TEER 0 to 3 candidates must achieve CLB 6 or higher in all four proficiencies unless their position is a listed skilled trade.
Skilled trades occupations under specific NOC Major Groups qualify with a lower CLB 5 minimum across all four test areas.
TEER 4 and 5 candidates must achieve CLB 4 or higher in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Recent Ontario graduates who completed an eligible credential within the past three years are exempt from the language test requirement for TEER 0 to 3 positions.
Ontario accepts three English tests and two French tests for the Ontario Workforce Priority stream.
English Tests Accepted French Tests Accepted IELTS General Training TEF Canada CELPIP General TCF Canada PTE Core — The language test date must fall within two years before your application submission date.
IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, and One Skill Retake tests are not accepted under this stream.
EOI Scoring Factors and Point Breakdown
Once you register an EOI, the OINP assigns points based on several employment, education, language, and regional factors.
The highest-scoring candidates in the selection pool are invited to apply during periodic draw rounds.
The following table lists the key scoring categories and their maximum available points.
Scoring Category Maximum Points NOC TEER Category (0-1 highest) 9 points NOC Broad Occupational Category 10 points (Category 3) Hourly Wage ($40+/hr highest) 15 points Ontario Work Experience (24+ months in position) 18 points Canadian Earnings History ($70K+) 8 points Legal Status in Canada (work permit) 10 points Highest Education Level (Doctorate) 10 points Number of Canadian Credentials (2+) 10 points Official Language Ability (CLB 9+) 15 points Knowledge of Two Official Languages 10 points Regional Immigration (Northern Ontario) 15 points Candidates with job offers in Northern Ontario receive the highest regional points at 15, followed by Eastern, Central, and Southwestern Ontario at 10 points each.
Jobs inside the Greater Toronto Area but outside the City of Toronto receive 5 points, while Toronto itself scores zero for regionalization.
Wages of $40 per hour or higher earn the maximum 15 points, while wages below $20 per hour receive no points in the hourly wage category.
Application Fees and Deadlines
If you receive an invitation to apply under the Ontario Workforce Priority stream, strict deadlines apply for both you and your employer.
Your employer must submit the application for approval of the employment position within 14 calendar days of the invitation date.
You must submit your application and pay the fee within 17 calendar days of the invitation date.
You cannot submit your application until your employer completes their portion first.
The following table breaks down the application fees based on work location.
Job Offer Location Application Fee Outside the Greater Toronto Area $1,500 Inside the Greater Toronto Area $2,000 The GTA for fee purposes includes the City of Toronto, Durham, Halton, Peel, and York regions.
The application fee is non-refundable once OINP has determined the application is complete and started processing it.
Ontario only accepts Visa, Visa Debit, Mastercard, and Mastercard Debit for payment.
Express Entry Connection and the 600-Point CRS Boost
Candidates who apply under the TEER 0 to 3 pathway or as self-employed physicians can choose to be nominated through the Express Entry system.
An OINP nomination through Express Entry adds 600 Comprehensive Ranking System points to your profile, which has effectively guaranteed an invitation in every recent PNP draw.
You must maintain a valid Express Entry profile from the time you apply until you are nominated.
After nomination, you have 30 calendar days to accept or refuse the nomination in the Express Entry system.
If you accept, you then have 60 calendar days to submit your full permanent residence application to IRCC.
Candidates who do not choose Express Entry can still apply for permanent residence through the non-Express Entry process for provincial nominees.
IRCC currently processes Express Entry PNP applications in approximately six to seven months, while non-Express Entry PNP applications take approximately 13 months based on the latest processing time data.
Employer Requirements Under the New Stream
Employers play a central role in the Ontario Workforce Priority stream because the program is fundamentally employer-driven.
Every employer must have been in active business for at least three years before submitting their application.
The business must have a physical premises in Ontario where the applicant will work.
There must be no outstanding orders against the employer under the Ontario Employment Standards Act, 2000 or the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Revenue and staffing requirements vary based on whether the job offer is located inside or outside the GTA.
Employers must also demonstrate that sufficient effort was made to recruit a Canadian citizen or permanent resident before offering the position to a foreign worker.
The job offer itself must be for a full-time and permanent position that is urgently necessary to the employer’s business operations.
Ontario Public Service entities are not eligible to participate as employers in this stream.
Ontario’s 2026 Nomination Allocation and What It Means
Ontario received an allocation of 14,119 nominations for 2026 from the federal government, a 31% increase from the 10,750 nominations issued in 2025.
Based on draws conducted before the June 26 stream closure, approximately 13,000 invitations to apply had been issued under the former streams by the end of April.
This means the remaining nomination capacity for the rest of 2026 under the Ontario Workforce Priority stream may be limited.
Ontario may also launch Phase 2 of the OINP redesign later in the year, which is expected to include pathways for healthcare workers and entrepreneurs.
Candidates who qualify under the current framework should treat this opening as time-sensitive and register as soon as their employer completes the portal submission.
What Candidates Should Do Right Now
The EOI portal is live as of August 4, 2026, and candidates with eligible employers in Ontario should move quickly to register.
Confirm that your employer meets all business eligibility requirements, including the three-year active business threshold and revenue minimums.
Ask your employer to register their business in the Employer Portal and submit the job offer for your position as soon as possible.
Once you receive your job offer ID, log in to the e-Filing Portal and register your EOI under the correct pathway for your NOC TEER level.
Ensure your language test results are current and meet the minimum CLB requirements listed on the official stream page.
If you completed your education outside Canada, obtain an Educational Credential Assessment report that is less than five years old.
Candidates targeting the Express Entry option should create or update their federal Express Entry profile and select Ontario as a province of interest for provincial nomination.
Monitor the official OINP updates page for draw announcements, as the first invitations under the new stream could arrive at any time.
The opening of the Ontario Workforce Priority stream EOI portal on August 4, 2026, marks the first opportunity for candidates to enter Ontario’s completely redesigned immigration system.
This is a single unified pathway that replaces eight former streams, and competition for the remaining 2026 nominations is expected to be intense.
Candidates with valid job offers, strong language scores, and established Ontario work experience are best positioned to score highly in the EOI ranking system.
The window to register is open now, but the 30-day clock starts the moment your employer submits the job offer through the Employer Portal.
Prepare your documents, confirm your eligibility against the official criteria, and register your EOI as soon as your employer completes their step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply to the Ontario Workforce Priority stream if I am currently outside Canada?
Yes, applicants outside Canada can register an EOI if they have a qualifying job offer from an eligible Ontario employer. However, your employer may need to demonstrate that sufficient recruitment efforts were made to hire a Canadian citizen or permanent resident first. Your legal status in Canada at the time of application affects your EOI score, and candidates without a valid work or study permit receive zero points for the legal status scoring factor.
What happens to my EOI if my employer changes the wage or NOC code after registration?
If your employer needs to change the wage or the NOC code attached to your job offer, they must withdraw the existing job offer and submit a new one through the Employer Portal. You will then need to register a new EOI using the updated job offer ID within 30 calendar days of the new submission. The original EOI linked to the withdrawn job offer cannot be updated to reflect the changes.
Does the Ontario Workforce Priority stream accept part-time work experience?
Part-time experience is only accepted under the two-year cumulative option for TEER 0 to 3 candidates. Part-time equivalent means working at least 15 hours per week in one job over four years, or at least 30 hours per week across multiple jobs over two years, totaling at least 3,120 hours. The TEER 4 to 5 pathway and the six-month consecutive option both require full-time work at 30 hours or more per week.
Can I switch employers after receiving a provincial nomination under this stream?
Your nomination is tied to the approved employment position with the specific employer listed in your application. If your employment in the approved position is terminated by either you or your employer after nomination, Ontario may cancel your nomination. You would need to submit a new EOI with a new employer and go through the entire process again from the beginning.
Are international students who graduated from Ontario colleges and universities still eligible for OINP?
The standalone Master’s Graduate and PhD Graduate streams no longer exist under the new system. However, recent Ontario graduates who completed an eligible credential within the past three years can still qualify under the TEER 0 to 3 pathway with a reduced three-month work experience requirement and a language test exemption. International graduates must now secure a qualifying full-time, permanent job offer from an eligible Ontario employer to apply.
Fact-Checked: All information in this article has been verified against official Ontario government sources as of August 4, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is published by Immigration News Canada for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant or licensed immigration lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.
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- New Federal Court Rulings Order IRCC To Decide Delayed Applications
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
2 new Federal Court decisions ordered Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to decide long-delayed applications within fixed timelines after finding that the department failed to justify the delays.
In one case, a study permit applicant had been stuck in security screening for more than three and a half years with no clear explanation for why the assessment remained incomplete.
In another case, a caregiver permanent residence applicant who had waited more than 42 months was told she faced another 39 months of waiting.
Both rulings applied a legal remedy called “mandamus,” which compels the government departments to perform a duty they have unreasonably failed to carry out.
The decisions do not mean that every applicant with a delayed file can now force IRCC to decide within 45 or 60 days, but they do establish that courts are increasingly rejecting vague justifications for prolonged processing delays.
This article explains both rulings, how mandamus works, what it costs, and what applicants in similar situations can realistically do.
Table of Contents
Dai v. Canada: 42 Months Waiting for a Caregiver PR Decision
On July 10, 2026, Justice Michael Battista of the Federal Court ordered IRCC to render a final decision on Yu Dai’s permanent residence application within 60 days.
Dai applied for permanent residence under the Home Child Care Provider pilot program on January 1, 2023.
By mid-2026, she had waited approximately 42 months, and IRCC’s processing time calculator estimated another 39 months remaining, projecting a total wait of over six and a half years.
The court found that a Ministerial Instruction issued in December 2025 had repealed the previous processing framework without replacing it with any new policy.
Justice Battista described this as a “processing policy vacuum” and ruled that IRCC could not rely on a policy that contained no transparent, intelligible processing system to justify the delay.
The court noted that IRCC’s processing time calculator was “not a policy, it does not describe the manner of processing, and it provides no assurance that other applications will not at some point be placed ahead of the Applicant.”
The decision cited the program’s own stated goal of providing stability to caregivers already living and working in Canada, concluding that open-ended delay undermines rather than serves that purpose.
Approximately 38,800 applicants remain in the same caregiver program queue, with 18,300 ahead of Dai’s file at the time of the ruling.
Roghangar v. Canada: 3.5 Years Waiting on a Study Permit
On July 22, 2026, the Federal Court ordered IRCC to decide a study permit application that had been pending for more than three and a half years, a timeline that exceeds even the longest study permit processing estimates IRCC has published in 2026.
The applicant, an Iranian citizen, had submitted a study permit application that became stuck in security screening with no substantive updates or timeline provided by IRCC.
The court found that vague statements about an ongoing security assessment did not constitute a satisfactory justification for the delay.
IRCC’s published service standard for study permit processing is 60 days, making a delay of more than 42 months approximately 21 times longer than the department’s own benchmark.
The court ordered IRCC to make a decision on the application within 45 days.
The ruling reinforced a growing body of case law holding that IRCC cannot indefinitely park applications behind a general reference to security screening without providing case-specific evidence of why the assessment is taking as long as it is.
Two Rulings at a Glance
Detail Dai v. Canada Roghangar v. Canada Released July 10, 2026 July 22, 2026 Citation 2026 FC 931 2026 FC 987 Application type Permanent residence (caregiver) Study permit Wait at time of ruling ~42 months ~42 months IRCC’s stated reason Processing policy vacuum Security screening Court’s finding Delay unreasonable, no transparent policy Delay unreasonable, vague justification Order Decision within 60 days Decision within 45 days A Broader Pattern of Courts Demanding Explanations
These two decisions are part of a broader pattern in which the Federal Court has been increasingly demanding that IRCC provide specific, intelligible explanations when applications remain unresolved for years.
In a separate July 2026 ruling, the court emphasized that ministerial processing priorities do not eliminate the obligation to justify prolonged delays on individual files.
The Federal Court of Appeal’s 2026 decision in Benison v. Canada confirmed that once an applicant shows the delay is prima facie unreasonable, the burden shifts to IRCC to justify it with real, case-specific evidence.
The Benison ruling also held that concerns about “queue jumping” alone cannot prevent a mandamus order, removing one of the government’s most frequently cited arguments against compelling individual decisions.
Together, these rulings signal that applicants stuck in extended processing backlogs have a growing body of case law to support mandamus applications when IRCC’s explanations fall short.
How Mandamus Works in Immigration Cases
Mandamus is a court order that compels a government authority to perform a public legal duty it has unreasonably failed to carry out.
In immigration cases, it forces IRCC to make a decision on a pending application, but it does not dictate what that decision must be.
A mandamus order can result in either an approval or a refusal, and applicants must understand that compelling a decision is not the same as guaranteeing a positive outcome, a distinction that also applies to Express Entry invitations, which are invitations to apply rather than approvals.
Canadian courts apply the eight-factor test from Apotex v. Canada (Attorney General) to determine whether mandamus should be granted, a framework that applies across all immigration program categories.
The core question is whether the delay is unreasonable, which is assessed under the three-part Conille v. Canada test requiring the applicant to show that the delay exceeds what the process requires, that the applicant did not cause the delay, and that IRCC has no satisfactory justification.
Applicants must file an application for leave and judicial review at the Federal Court within 15 days of becoming aware that the delay is unreasonable.
Legal representation is not mandatory for Federal Court proceedings, but it is strongly recommended given the complexity of the process and the need to present case-specific evidence, affidavits, and legal arguments.
What It Costs and What Applicants Should Know
Filing a mandamus application at the Federal Court involves a filing fee, which is currently a few hundred dollars, plus legal costs if an applicant retains a lawyer.
Legal fees for mandamus applications typically range from several thousand dollars to ten thousand dollars or more depending on the complexity of the case and the jurisdiction.
Not every delayed application will produce the same result in court because mandamus decisions are made on a case-by-case basis depending on the specific facts, the length of the delay, and the quality of IRCC’s justification.
However, in legal terms, the Dai and Roghangar decisions add to a growing set of precedents that applicants and their representatives can cite when arguing that their own delays are unreasonable.
Before filing a mandamus application, applicants should take several practical steps to build the strongest possible case.
First, request GCMS notes through an Access to Information and Privacy request, as these notes reveal the internal processing history of the file and any reasons for delay that IRCC has documented.
Second, submit a case-specific inquiry through the IRCC web form after the published processing time has elapsed, and document the response or lack of response.
Third, contact your Member of Parliament’s office to request a ministerial inquiry, which creates an additional paper trail showing that the applicant exhausted informal remedies before turning to the court.
Fourth, consult a licensed immigration lawyer to assess whether the specific facts of the case meet the legal threshold for mandamus.
Who Is Most Affected by IRCC Delays
The two July rulings addressed different corners of the immigration system, but IRCC’s backlog data shows that processing delays affect applicants across virtually every category.
The most severe backlogs as of the latest reporting cycle include humanitarian and compassionate grounds applications with processing estimates exceeding ten years, caregiver program applications with waits of five to six years, and Start-Up Visa applicants facing processing times of three to five years.
Study permit and work permit applicants face shorter but still significant delays, particularly those whose files are flagged for enhanced security screening.
Family sponsorship applicants, especially in the parents and grandparents category, have seen processing times improve in some streams but remain well above service standards in others.
Express Entry applicants who have received invitations and submitted permanent residence applications generally face shorter waits of six to seven months under the Canadian Experience Class, but files flagged for additional review can extend well beyond that.
Important Limitations of These Rulings
Both court orders apply only to the specific applicants who brought the cases, and applicants should not assume that any pending immigration application will automatically receive the same treatment.
IRCC is not required by either ruling to accelerate, reprioritize, or change its processing approach for any other applicant.
Federal Court judges are not bound by each other’s decisions, meaning another judge could rule differently on similar facts.
The Dai decision itself acknowledged a divergence from a contemporaneous ruling in Hussain v. Canada (2026 FC 885), which reached a different conclusion on whether the same Ministerial Instructions could justify caregiver delays.
That divergence means the legal landscape is not yet settled, and future rulings or an appeal court decision could clarify or modify the current framework, much as the departmental plan for 2026 may shape IRCC’s response to these decisions.
Applicants should also understand that IRCC may respond to these rulings by issuing new Ministerial Instructions with a clear processing framework, which could restore a legally defensible justification for future delays.
Despite these limitations, the rulings are persuasive precedents that strengthen the position of applicants whose files have been pending for years without a specific, intelligible explanation from IRCC.
The Dai and Roghangar decisions add to a growing body of Federal Court jurisprudence that holds IRCC accountable for providing specific, intelligible justifications when applications remain unresolved for years.
Applicants who believe their files have been unreasonably delayed should begin by requesting their GCMS notes and consulting a licensed legal professional to assess whether their case meets the threshold for mandamus.
These rulings do not open the door for every delayed applicant to force a decision within 45 or 60 days, but they do confirm that courts will intervene when IRCC’s explanations amount to nothing more than vague references to backlogs or screening without case-specific substance.
Candidates should monitor the official IRCC processing times page and the Federal Court decisions database for further developments in this area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does mandamus guarantee that my application will be approved?
No, mandamus compels IRCC to make a decision, not to approve the application. The decision could be an approval, a refusal, or a request for additional information. Applicants who receive a refusal after a mandamus order retain the right to challenge that refusal through judicial review if the decision was made in error.
How long does a mandamus application typically take from filing to decision?
Federal Court mandamus proceedings typically take six to twelve months from the initial filing to a hearing and decision, though timelines vary depending on the court’s schedule and the complexity of the case. In some cases, IRCC decides the application after the mandamus filing but before the hearing, which can render the court proceeding moot. This outcome, while frustrating for applicants who have already incurred legal costs, still achieves the underlying goal of forcing movement on the file.
Can I file for mandamus without a lawyer?
Applicants are permitted to represent themselves before the Federal Court, and legal representation is not mandatory. However, mandamus applications require detailed affidavits, legal memoranda, and familiarity with Federal Court procedures, making professional legal representation strongly advisable. Immigration consultants can provide advice and prepare supporting documentation, but only lawyers licensed in a Canadian province or territory can represent applicants in Federal Court proceedings.
Does filing for mandamus affect my relationship with IRCC or prejudice my application?
IRCC is legally prohibited from retaliating against applicants who exercise their right to seek judicial review, a protection that extends across all immigration program categories including provincial nominees. Filing a mandamus application is a lawful use of the court system and should not negatively affect how IRCC assesses the merits of the underlying application. Applicants should nonetheless ensure that their application file is complete and that they have responded to all IRCC requests, as any gap in their own compliance could weaken their mandamus case.
Are there alternatives to mandamus for applicants stuck in processing delays?
Before pursuing mandamus, applicants should exhaust informal remedies, including submitting a case inquiry through the IRCC web form, contacting their Member of Parliament for a ministerial inquiry, and requesting GCMS notes through an ATIP request to understand what is happening with their file. These steps create a paper trail that strengthens a mandamus case if informal remedies fail to produce movement, as documented in our coverage of the PGWP refusal protests where procedural documentation proved critical. Applicants should also check whether alternative immigration pathways exist that could achieve their immigration goal through a different program while the delayed application remains pending.
Fact-Checked: All case details in this article have been verified against published Federal Court decisions and primary source reporting as of August 3, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is published by Immigration News Canada for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Mandamus outcomes are case-specific. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant or licensed immigration lawyer before taking legal action.
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- 8 New Canada Immigration Updates To Watch For In August 2026
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
August 2026 arrives with a stack of confirmed deadlines, expiring policies, and anticipated announcements that together make it one of the most consequential months of the year for Canadian immigration stakeholders.
Two humanitarian policies have reached or are approaching their expiration dates, a student pilot enters a new annual intake cycle, and one of Canada’s largest provincial nominee programs could reopen its application portal at any point during the month.
IRCC has also redesigned how it reports on its application backlog, making direct comparisons with earlier months more difficult for applicants trying to gauge processing momentum.
Meanwhile, hundreds of international graduates continue protesting post-graduation work permit refusals connected to non-credit programs, with no federal resolution announced as August begins.
This article covers every confirmed change, every expiring policy, and every watch item that immigration applicants, employers, and advisors should track through August 2026.
Table of Contents
IRCC Changes How It Reports Processing Backlogs
IRCC redesigned its application inventory dashboard in July 2026, and the change has significant implications for how applicants interpret backlog data going forward.
The new page, titled “Inside IRCC’s application processing system,” was published on July 21 with data as of May 31, 2026.
Under the previous format, IRCC reported what percentage of applications in each category were being processed within service standards versus sitting in backlog.
The new format no longer provides that percentage breakdown, removing the most commonly cited metric for tracking whether IRCC was keeping pace with its own targets.
Instead, the updated page reports total applications awaiting a final decision, broken into three new categories for permanent residence: Economic, Family, and Protection.
As of May 31, 2026, IRCC reported 1,517,770 total applications across permanent residence, temporary residence, and citizenship still awaiting processing.
The permanent residence inventory alone stands at 705,315, with Protection class at 307,215 applications representing the largest single category.
The new reporting structure also includes applications placed on a waitlist for future processing, a category that did not exist under the previous dashboard format.
Applicants who have been tracking month-over-month backlog trends since late 2025 should be aware that direct comparisons between the old and new reporting formats are not straightforward.
The next inventory update under the new format is expected in August 2026, and it will determine the real month-on-month data comparison.
New Francophone Student Pilot Intake Begins
A new annual intake period under the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot begins on August 26, 2026, following the extension announced by Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab on July 6 in Winnipeg.
IRCC can accept up to 2,970 qualifying study permit applications between August 26, 2026, and August 25, 2027.
The pilot was originally set to close on August 25, 2026, but the extension added a third year of intake at the same 2,970 application cap.
The FMCSP offers French-speaking international students from designated countries across Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas a direct pathway to permanent residence after completing a Canadian credential.
Eligible applicants must hold a letter of acceptance bearing the FMCSP code from one of 17 participating designated learning institutions outside Quebec.
The pilot requires a minimum French language score of NCLC 5 in all four skills, a lower threshold than the NCLC 7 required for Express Entry French-language category draws.
Applications received after the annual cap is reached will not be accepted for processing and will be returned to the applicant.
Hong Kong Permanent Residence Pathways Close
The temporary public policy providing two dedicated permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents officially closes on August 31, 2026.
Stream A targets Hong Kong nationals who graduated from a Canadian designated learning institution within the past three years.
Stream B targets Hong Kong nationals with at least 12 months of full-time Canadian work experience or the equivalent 1,560 hours of part-time work within the past three years.
Both streams require Canadian Language Benchmark level 5 proficiency in English or French across all four language skills.
Applicants must be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status at the time of application and when permanent residence is granted.
Applications properly submitted before the August 31 deadline can continue to be processed afterward, though current processing times for Hong Kong pathway applications extend beyond 12 months.
This policy has been in effect since June 1, 2021, and IRCC has not yet announced any plans for a further extension beyond August 31, 2026.
So it also becomes one of the important updates in August to see if IRCC extends it or pathway just ends.
Applicants who have not yet completed their language tests, gathered education documents, or verified their work experience records should act immediately given that many of these steps carry their own processing timelines.
Will Express Entry Draws Continue in August?
IRCC conducted 42 Express Entry draws between January 5 and July 23, issuing 104,616 invitations to apply for permanent residence in the first seven months of 2024.
Express Entry draws are expected to continue in August, but the IRCC does not publish a guaranteed advance draw calendar and can change timing, category, or volumes without notice.
The most recent draws followed a cluster model in which PNP, CEC, and French-language rounds appeared within a compressed window of three to four consecutive days.
July 2026 featured two such clusters, one from July 6 through July 10 and another from July 20 through July 23, with no draws conducted outside those windows.
The two July CEC draws each issued 2,000 invitations, while CEC cutoffs have remained between 515 and 518 since April 2026.
French-language draws have been the highest-volume category-based pathway in 2026, with 40,500 invitations issued across 8 rounds and a CRS cutoff that dropped to 399 in the most recent round on July 22.
Candidates in the Express Entry pool should keep their profiles current and documents ready because we might see a PNP draw today, followed by a CEC and category-based round later in the week.
Fate Of Portage College PGWP Refusals and Ongoing Protests
Hundreds of international graduates connected to Portage College partner campuses in Calgary and Edmonton are continuing to protest post-graduation work permit refusals that began in late June 2026.
IRCC has been refusing PGWP applications from these graduates on the basis that their programs are classified as non-credit, citing that non-credit programs do not meet the eligibility criteria for work authorization under the immigration regulations.
The refusals followed an update to the IRCC PGWP webpage on or around June 24, 2026, which clarified that applicants must complete a program leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate and that general interest programs, ESL/FSL programs, and other non-credit programs do not qualify.
IRCC has stated that this is not a new rule but a longstanding eligibility requirement that was clarified in the website update.
Portage College has said it does not make immigration decisions, does not act as a representative in individual immigration matters, and does not guarantee that any program will result in a particular immigration outcome.
The college has advised affected graduates to seek independent legal advice from an authorized immigration representative and explore available PGWP to PR pathways.
A petition on Change.org has called on Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab to pause all PGWP refusals on Portage College files pending review and to reverse the June 24 webpage change or apply it only prospectively to students who enrolled after the clarification was published.
As of August 2, 2026, IRCC has not announced any reconsideration, moratorium, or policy reversal, making this a continuing watch item through the month.
Palestinian Temporary Immigration Measures Extended
The special temporary immigration measures for eligible Palestinian passport holders and certain family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents were set to expire on July 31, 2026.
However, IRCC has further extended these special measures until December 30, 2027, now.
These measures were first introduced in December 2023 in response to the crisis in the Palestinian Territories and were extended twice.
The policy allows eligible Palestinians in Canada to apply for fee-exempt study permits, open work permits, temporary resident permits, or extensions of their temporary resident status.
This remains an August update for affected Palestinians in Canada.
Ontario Workforce Priority Stream Could Open in August
Ontario launched its new Workforce Priority Stream on June 26, 2026, replacing the eight previous OINP streams in the first phase of a two-phase program redesign.
The new stream covers workers across all NOC TEER levels from 0 through 5 and includes a separate pathway for self-employed physicians who do not need a job offer.
Ontario closed its Expression of Interest system on June 25, 2026, and all pending EOIs that had not received an invitation to apply were automatically withdrawn.
The province has stated that the EOI system is expected to reopen “later in the summer of 2026” but has not committed to a specific date.
Ontario also published the EOI scoring framework on July 20, 2026, setting out how eligible candidates will be ranked once the system reopens.
Employers who previously registered in the OINP Employer Portal do not need to register again, but they will need to submit a new job offer and a new application for approval of an employment position once the platform is active.
Ontario received a nomination allocation of 14,119 spots for 2026, and approximately 13,000 invitations to apply had already been issued under the former streams as of April 30, 2026.
Whether the remaining allocation flows through the new stream and how quickly Ontario begins issuing invitations under the new framework are key questions that August may answer.
Ebola Immigration and Border Restrictions Scheduled to End in Late August
Two sets of temporary measures introduced in response to the Ebola disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan are currently scheduled to end in late August 2026.
The immigration document suspension, which prevents foreign nationals who listed one of the affected countries as their last country of residence from using previously approved visas, permits, or electronic travel authorizations to travel to Canada, is scheduled to end at 23:59 ET on August 28, 2026.
The separate quarantine and border measures under the Quarantine Act, which require a 21-day quarantine for eligible travellers who have been in the affected areas within the previous 21 days, are scheduled to remain in effect until 23:59 EDT on August 29, 2026.
A third layer of restrictions was added on July 20, 2026, prohibiting foreign nationals who have been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo within the past 21 days from entering Canada entirely.
Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and persons registered under the Indian Act are not prohibited from entry but remain subject to a health assessment and the 21-day quarantine requirement.
The government has stated that the health risk to Canadians from Ebola remains low and that no travel-related Ebola cases have been reported in Canada.
However, the outbreak is evolving, and the government could extend or modify any of these restrictions before their scheduled end dates depending on the epidemiological situation.
August 2026 Immigration Dates at a Glance
Date Event Status Aug 2 Express Entry draw clusters resume Expected to continue with PNP draw on August 2 Aug 2 Palestinian temp measures already expired (Jul 31) Extended until December 2027 Aug 26 FMCSP new annual intake opens Confirmed Aug 28 Ebola immigration document suspension ends May extend Aug 29 Ebola quarantine measures end May extend Aug 31 Hong Kong PR pathways close May extend TBD Ontario Workforce Priority EOI reopens Expected summer 2026 TBD Next IRCC backlog update (new format) Expected in August TBD PGWP refusal response from IRCC Unknown The Hong Kong pathway closure on August 31 and the Francophone student pilot intake opening on August 26 are fixed dates that cannot be extended without new ministerial action.
The Ebola restrictions, Ontario EOI portal, and PGWP refusal situation are all items where federal or provincial decisions could arrive at any point during the month.
Candidates should monitor the official IRCC news page and provincial government announcements for updates as they are published.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Portage College graduates appeal their PGWP refusals?
Affected graduates can apply for leave and judicial review at the Federal Court within 15 days of receiving a refusal made in Canada. The process involves filing fees. Some graduates may also be eligible to submit a new PGWP application if their eligibility circumstances change, but the underlying program classification issue would likely produce the same result.
Does the IRCC backlog reporting change affect my application?
The reporting change does not affect how IRCC processes individual applications or the order in which files are reviewed. It only changes how IRCC presents aggregate data to the public, making it harder to track month-over-month trends using the old percentage-based metric. Applicants can continue to check their individual processing times on IRCC’s separate processing times page, which is updated weekly for temporary residence categories and monthly for permanent residence.
What happens to Hong Kong pathway applications submitted before August 31?
Applications properly submitted before the deadline will continue to be processed by IRCC regardless of when the policy closes. Current processing times for Hong Kong pathway applications extend beyond 12 months, meaning applicants should maintain valid temporary resident status while waiting for a decision. Applicants whose temporary status is expiring may be eligible for the special open work permit for Hong Kong permanent residence pathway applicants, which can be valid for up to three years.
Is the Ebola travel ban likely to be extended past August?
The government has stated it will adjust measures as needed based on the epidemiological situation in Canada and internationally. Extensions have been common with previous public health measures when the underlying situation has not resolved by the scheduled end date. Travellers and immigration applicants connected to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan should monitor the PHAC and IRCC websites for any updates to these measures.
Have Canada’s temporary immigration measures for Palestinians been extended?
Yes, the new temporary immigration measures are in effect from August 1, 2026, until December 30, 2027. Eligible Palestinian passport holders and certain foreign-national family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents in Canada may apply for an open work permit, study permit, or extension of their stay. Eligible people who have not previously applied under the earlier Palestinian public policies can apply without application fees, while qualifying open work permit holders may apply once for an extension under the new policy with standard fees.
Fact-Checked: All information in this article has been verified against official IRCC pages, Government of Canada announcements, Ontario government publications, and primary source documents as of August 2, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is published by Immigration News Canada for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant or licensed immigration lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.
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- 4 New CRA Benefit Payments Coming In August 2026
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
August 2026 brings four separate CRA benefit payments landing in Canadian bank accounts across three different weeks of the month.
This is the second month of the 2026-27 benefit year that started on July 1, and all amounts now reflect your 2025 tax return data and the latest indexation adjustments.
The Canada Revenue Agency recalculated every income-tested benefit in July using updated figures from the confirmed 2% CRA indexation increase, so your August deposits should match the amounts you saw last month.
If your household income changed significantly between 2024 and 2025, however, your payment could be noticeably higher or lower than what you received earlier this year.
This guide covers every CRA-administered benefit arriving in August, including exact payment dates, updated maximum amounts, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for each program.
Table of Contents
Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment that helps eligible families with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age.
The August 20 deposit is the second CCB payment of the 2026-27 benefit year, and amounts are now calculated using your 2025 adjusted family net income.
Updated CCB Maximum Amounts For 2026-27
Child’s Age Maximum Per Year Maximum Per Month Under 6 years old $8,157 $679.75 Aged 6 to 17 $6,883 $573.58 These amounts represent an increase of $160 per child under six and $135 per child aged six to 17 compared to the previous benefit year.
CCB Income Thresholds
Families with a 2025 adjusted family net income below $38,237 receive the full maximum CCB for each qualifying child with no reductions applied.
Between $38,237 and $82,847, the benefit is gradually reduced based on the number of children in your care.
A second reduction formula applies once income exceeds $82,847.
The income level at which the benefit phases out entirely varies according to the number and ages of eligible children.
Child Disability Benefit
Families with a child who qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit can receive the Child Disability Benefit on top of the regular CCB amount.
The maximum CDB for eligible children is $3,480 per year for the 2026-27 benefit year, which works out to approximately $290 per month per qualifying child.
CCB Eligibility
You must live with the child and be primarily responsible for their care and upbringing.
You or your spouse or common-law partner must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, a protected person, an individual registered or entitled to be registered under the Indian Act, or a temporary resident who has lived in Canada throughout the previous 18 months and has a valid permit in the 19th month.
Both parents must file their income tax returns every year, even if they earned no income, to continue receiving the CCB without interruption.
Parents in shared custody arrangements each receive 50% of the CCB calculated at their respective income levels.
Ontario Trillium Benefit
The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment that the CRA delivers on behalf of the Province of Ontario to eligible low and moderate-income residents.
The August 10 deposit is the second payment of the new 2026-27 benefit year, calculated using income reported on your 2025 tax return.
The OTB combines three separate provincial credits into a single monthly deposit, making it one of the most valuable provincial benefit programs available to Ontario households.
What The OTB Includes
The Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit provides relief for property taxes and energy costs paid by renters, homeowners, and residents of long-term care homes or reserves.
The maximum OEPTC for the 2026-27 benefit year is $1,307 per year for adults aged 18 to 64 and $1,488 per year for seniors aged 65 and older.
Residents of reserves or public long-term care homes can receive up to $290, and individuals who lived in a designated student residence in 2025 qualify for $25.
The Ontario Sales Tax Credit offsets the provincial portion of the HST for lower-income residents, with a maximum of $378 per eligible individual for 2026-27.
You can also receive $378 for a qualifying spouse or common-law partner and $378 for each dependent child under 19 years of age.
The Northern Ontario Energy Credit is available only to residents of Northern Ontario, with a maximum of $189 for single individuals and $290 for families.
OTB Eligibility
You must file your 2025 income tax return to receive the OTB.
Form ON-BEN is required to claim the OEPTC or NOEC, while the CRA automatically assesses eligibility for the OSTC using your return.
Each credit within the OTB has its own qualification criteria, but you only need to qualify for one component to start receiving monthly payments.
For the OSTC, you must be at least 19 years old or have a spouse or common-law partner or be a parent who lives with your child.
The OEPTC requires that you paid rent, property tax, or energy costs on your principal residence in Ontario during 2025.
If your annual OTB entitlement is $500 or less, the CRA issues it as a single lump sum in July rather than in monthly installments.
Alberta Child And Family Benefit
The Alberta Child and Family Benefit is a tax-free quarterly payment for Alberta families with children under 18, administered by the CRA on behalf of the Province of Alberta.
The August 27 deposit is the first ACFB payment at the new 2026-27 benefit year rates, which were recalculated in July using your 2025 tax return data.
The ACFB has two components that are calculated separately, and eligible families can receive both.
ACFB Maximum Amounts For 2026-27
Number of Children Base Component Working Component Combined Maximum 1 child $1,529/year $782/year $2,311/year 2 children $2,293/year $1,494/year $3,787/year 3 children $3,057/year $1,920/year $4,977/year 4+ children $3,821/year $2,061/year $5,882/year The base component begins to phase out once your adjusted family net income exceeds $28,116.
The working component is available to families with employment income above $2,760 and begins phasing out at an income threshold of $47,115.
ACFB Eligibility
You must be a parent of one or more children under 18, a resident of Alberta, and have filed your income tax return according to the Alberta Child and Family Benefit program rules.
If you qualify for the federal Canada Child Benefit, the CRA automatically considers you for the ACFB without any separate application.
Receiving AISH, Income Support, or the Alberta childcare subsidy does not affect your ACFB eligibility, and these programs do not claw back your ACFB payments.
NLDB Payment
The Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit provides up to $400 per month to eligible residents of the province who have disabilities and low incomes.
This provincial benefit is administered by the CRA on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and follows a monthly payment schedule.
The NLDB pays a full $400 per month to individuals with an adjusted family net income below $29,402.
Partial benefits are available for individuals and couples with income between $29,402 and $42,404, or up to $55,404 for couples where both spouses qualify for the DTC.
NLDB Eligibility
You must be a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador between 18 and 64 years of age with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate.
You must have filed your 2025 federal income tax return, and no separate application is required beyond meeting these criteria.
In families where both spouses qualify for the DTC, each partner can receive the full NLDB amount, effectively doubling the household benefit to $800 per month.
CRA Benefits Not Scheduled For August
The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit follows a quarterly schedule, and the next payment is confirmed for October 5, 2026.
The CGEB replaced the GST/HST credit in July 2026 with a 25% increase, delivering up to $679 per year for single individuals and $890 for couples.
The Advanced Canada Workers Benefit also has no August payment, with the next advance deposit scheduled for October 9, 2026, as listed on the official CRA benefit payment dates page.
CPP and OAS payments are scheduled for August 27, 2026, on the same day as the ACFB, but these are administered by Service Canada rather than the CRA.
All Remaining CRA Benefit Payment Dates In 2026
Benefit Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec CCB Aug 20 Sep 18 Oct 20 Nov 20 Dec 11 CGEB — — Oct 5 — — OTB Aug 10 Sep 10 Oct 9 Nov 10 Dec 10 ACWB — — Oct 9 — — ACFB Aug 27 — — Nov 27 — NLDB Aug 25 Sep 25 Oct 23 Nov 25 Dec 24 The CCB payment dates and all other dates above are confirmed on the official Government of Canada benefits calendar.
How To Apply And Ensure You Receive Your Payments
The single most important step for receiving any CRA benefit payment is filing your annual income tax return, even if you earned no income during the year.
Filing an annual income tax return allows the CRA to calculate or continue most benefit payments.
New CCB recipients must apply for the benefit, while the NLDB also requires a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate on file with the CRA.
For the Ontario Trillium Benefit, you must complete the ON-BEN form as part of your Ontario tax return to claim the energy and property tax components.
The NLDB requires an approved Disability Tax Credit certificate, which involves having a medical practitioner complete Form T2201 and submitting it to the CRA.
Setting up direct deposit through CRA My Account is the fastest and most secure way to receive your payments on the scheduled date.
Canadians who receive payments by cheque should allow five to ten additional business days for mail delivery after each official payment date.
If your payment has not arrived, wait 5 to 10 business days from the payment date before contacting the CRA at 1-800-387-1193.
Report any changes to your marital status, address, number of children, or custody arrangements to the CRA promptly through My Account.
Failing to report changes can result in overpayments that the CRA will require you to repay, as explained in our CRA clawback thresholds guide.
Summary Of August 2026 CRA Benefit Payment Dates
Benefit Program Payment Date Administered By Maximum Amount Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) August 10 CRA Varies by household Canada Child Benefit (CCB) August 20 CRA $679.75/month per child under 6 Newfoundland and Labrador Disability Benefit (NLDB) August 25 CRA $400/month Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) August 27 CRA Up to $5,882/year The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit and the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit do not have scheduled payments in August.
The next CGEB deposit lands on October 5, and the next ACWB advance payment arrives on October 9, 2026.
August 2026 delivers four CRA-administered benefit payments across three weeks, providing critical financial support to millions of Canadian families, workers, and people with disabilities.
Mark August 10, 20, 25, and 27 on your calendar to track each deposit, and bookmark the official Government of Canada benefits calendar for any schedule updates.
Verify your payment amounts through CRA My Account before each deposit date to confirm your entitlements are accurate.
For a complete overview of every CRA and Service Canada payment scheduled through the end of 2026, see our full payment dates guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I receive multiple CRA benefit payments in the same month?
Yes, many Canadians receive several benefit payments in a single month because each program operates on its own schedule and has independent eligibility criteria. An eligible Ontario parent could receive the OTB on August 10 and the CCB on August 20, while an eligible Alberta parent could receive the CCB on August 20 and the ACFB on August 27. Each benefit is calculated separately using your filed tax return and the specific rules for that program, and receiving one does not reduce your entitlement to another.
What happens if I filed my 2025 tax return late and my August payment is missing?
The CRA cannot calculate your benefit amounts until your tax return has been assessed, so a late filing can result in paused or delayed payments for the entire 2026-27 benefit year. If your return is assessed after the August payment cutoff, the CRA will issue retroactive payments for any months you missed once the assessment is complete. File as soon as possible through NETFILE or a certified tax software provider to restore your payments.
Do CRA benefit payments count as taxable income on my next year’s tax return?
The CCB, CGEB, OTB, ACFB, and NLDB are all tax-free payments that do not need to be reported as income, as confirmed by the CRA benefits program rules. These payments also do not count toward your adjusted family net income when the CRA calculates your entitlement for other income-tested benefits the following year. This means receiving the CGEB, for example, will not reduce your CCB, GIS, or OTB entitlement in the next benefit cycle.
Will the ACFB amount on August 27 be different from what I received on May 27?
Yes, the August 27 ACFB payment is the first deposit at the new 2026-27 benefit year rates, which are calculated using your 2025 tax return instead of your 2024 return. The base and working component maximums have both been adjusted upward through annual indexation, as detailed on the Alberta government program page. If your family income changed between 2024 and 2025, the shift to the new base year could result in a noticeably different quarterly deposit.
How do I check my exact benefit amounts before each payment date?
Log into CRA My Account at canada.ca to view your personalized payment details for every CRA-administered benefit, including the CCB, OTB, CGEB, ACFB, and NLDB. CRA My Account shows your next expected payment date, amount, and any adjustments applied based on your most recent tax assessment. You can also sign up for benefit and credit payment reminders through My Account to receive email notifications about one week before each deposit.
When will the Ontario Trillium Benefit be paid in August 2026?
The Ontario Trillium Benefit payment is scheduled for August 10, 2026. Eligible Ontario residents receiving monthly OTB installments should see the deposit on that date, while a mailed cheque may take additional business days to arrive.
What should I do if my CRA benefit payment does not arrive on the scheduled date?
Check CRA My Account first to confirm the expected payment date, amount, and whether any adjustment or delay has been applied. Canadians receiving payments by cheque should allow five to ten additional business days for delivery. If the payment still has not arrived after that period, contact the CRA at 1-800-387-1193.
Fact-Checked: All payment dates, benefit amounts, income thresholds, and eligibility details in this article have been verified against the official CRA benefit payment dates page, the Government of Canada benefits calendar, and the CRA provincial programs pages published on canada.ca as of August 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice.
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- 10 New Canada Laws and Rules Taking Effect In August 2026
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
August brings one of the busiest stretches of new Canada laws, rules, and changes the country has seen this year.
New student grant amounts, new banking rules, and a new foreign influence registry all take effect this month.
Some changes put more money within reach for students and reservists across the country. Others quietly rewrite how banks move your money and how certain groups must disclose foreign ties.
Several deadlines also arrive for businesses, importers, hunters, and cosmetics companies selling in Canada.
This guide breaks down every major federal law and rule taking effect in August 2026.
Each entry explains what changed, who it affects, and the exact date it applies. Each entry explains what changed, who it affects, and the exact date it applies.
Table of Contents
1. Canada Student Grant Amounts Continue for 2026-2027
The federal government is keeping student grants and loans at their raised levels for the 2026-2027 school year.
Without this step, the amounts would have slid back toward their lower pre-pandemic values. The higher figures apply from August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2027.
Full-time students can receive up to $4,200 for a typical study year, and the official grant page sets out the current amounts.
What students can receive
- Full-time student grant: up to $525 per month, or about $4,200 for an eight-month study period
- Part-time student grant: up to $2,520 per year
- Students with disabilities grant: $2,800 per year
- Full-time students with dependants: up to $280 per dependant for each month of study
- Part-time students with dependents: up to $2,688 per year
- Maximum federal student loan: $300 per week for full-time students
The updated rules are expected to reach roughly 720,000 students nationwide. Eligibility still depends on family income and family size.
2026-2027 income thresholds
Family size Maximum-grant income Grant cut-off 1 $38,474 $69,987 2 $54,412 $98,017 3 $66,641 $117,317 4 $76,952 $129,769 5 $86,033 $141,180 6 $94,245 $151,937 7 or more $101,797 $161,321 Students below the maximum-grant income qualify for the full grant amount. The grant then shrinks gradually as income rises toward the cut-off.
These federal grants do not flow the same way in Quebec, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories.
Those regions run their own student aid systems and receive separate federal payments.
2. Limits on Federal Grants at For-Profit Schools
A separate regulation changes which schools can qualify students for the full-time grant.
From August 1, the Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students generally goes to two groups.
- Students at public postsecondary institutions
- Students at private, not-for-profit postsecondary institutions
Most students at private, for-profit schools will no longer qualify for this specific grant. A limited exemption exists for the 2026-2027 loan year in priority fields.
Those exempt programs prepare students to become nurses, dental hygienists, early childhood educators, or paramedics.
Outside British Columbia and Manitoba, the exemption usually needs a program of at least two years leading to a credential.
British Columbia and Manitoba can apply these exemptions at the individual program level. The same regulation also lifts the ceiling on outstanding Canada Student Loans.
That cap rises from $34 billion to $40 billion so lending can continue as the portfolio grows.
Students at private, for-profit schools outside Canada also lose access to federal student aid from August 1.
Transitional protection can run until July 31, 2029, for certain students staying in the same program at the same school.
Federal student aid is being suspended for new study periods at Atlantic Business College.
3. Foreign Influence Transparency Registry Opens
The Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act becomes operational on August 4.
It creates a public registry and a new commissioner overseeing foreign influence activity in Canada.
Anton Boegman, a former British Columbia chief electoral officer, begins his term as commissioner that day.
Registration applies when an arrangement meets all three of these conditions.
- The arrangement is with a foreign principal
- It aims to influence a Canadian political or governmental process
- It involves activities like contacting officials, distributing information, or providing money or services
The rules can reach federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal matters. They also cover elections, referendums, legislation, regulations, government programs, and contracts.
New arrangements must generally be registered within 14 days.
Arrangements that existed before August 4 have until October 3, 2026, to register, according to the commissioner’s registration guidance.
Penalties for non-compliance: Failure to register or provide truthful information can bring public findings and investigations. Administrative monetary penalties range from $250 to $1 million. Serious cases can also lead to criminal enforcement under the Act.
Registry information can generally be kept for 20 years after an arrangement ends.
Certain provisions involving First Nations band councils and specified Indigenous institutions are not part of the August 4 start.
4. New Rules Move Military Sexual Offences to Civilian Courts
Major amendments to the National Defence Act take effect August 17. They shift authority over certain Criminal Code sexual offences out of the military justice system.
The change applies to new offences alleged to have happened in Canada. Under the new framework, several things become true.
- The Armed Forces can no longer investigate these offences to lay charges under military justice
- Courts-martial lose jurisdiction over the listed Criminal Code sexual offences
- Civilian police, prosecutors, and criminal courts handle the cases instead
Military authorities can still act immediately when needed, as the Defence Department’s implementation notice explains.
That includes preventing an offence, making an arrest, protecting people, or preserving evidence before civilian handover.
This ranks among the most significant federal legal changes arriving this month.
5. New Real-Time Instant Payment Rules
The Canadian Payments Association bylaw No. 10 and the Real-Time Rail rules take effect August 24.
The framework sets the legal groundwork for instant, data-rich payments in Canada. It governs how eligible Payments Canada members participate in the system.
It also covers clearing, settlement, and final and irrevocable settlement through the Bank of Canada.
The rules add obligations for sending and receiving participants. They set operational, security, and risk-management requirements as well.
One point matters for readers expecting instant transfers right away.
August 24 is the effective date for the legal framework, not a switch that turns on instant payments for every customer, and the registered rules appear in the Canada Gazette.
Payments Canada currently expects the consumer-facing launch in the fourth quarter of 2026.
6. Cosmetic Fragrance-Allergen Labelling Change
New cosmetic products introduced in Canada from August 1 must disclose a much longer list of fragrance allergens.
Canada previously required disclosure of 24 fragrance allergens above set levels. That list now expands to 81 fragrance allergens for new products.
Disclosure applies once an allergen sits above certain thresholds.
- 0.001% in leave-on products
- 0.01% in rinse-off products
Products already on the market before August 1 get more time, and Health Canada’s cosmetics guidance outlines the labelling rules.
They generally have until August 1, 2028, to meet the expanded 81-allergen list.
7. Tobacco Warning Rotation Begins
Federal health warnings on tobacco products move to a new rotation on August 1. The first rotation for cigarettes, little cigars, cigarette tobacco, and tubes ends July 31.
The next rotation brings updated warnings and quit-related messages on packaging. Where required, warnings also appear directly on individual cigarettes.
A separate packaging transition ends for manufacturers on July 31. Cigarette makers using extended upper slide-flap packages must follow the set placement for health messages.
Retailers have until October 31, 2026, to finish their part of that transition. This is a new compliance stage under 2023 regulations, not a brand-new tobacco law.
8. New Certification for Pet Food From Mexico
The transition period for updated Canadian Food Inspection Agency zoosanitary certificates for pet-food imports from Mexico ends August 22.
After that date, covered pet-food imports from Mexico need new certification statements. Affected products include several common categories.
- Kibble
- Canned pet food
- Pet treats
- Jerky
- Simple and compound pet chews
Until August 22, importers may use either the old or new certificate.
After the transition, shipments must meet the revised requirements in the Automated Import Reference System.
There is no matching change for pet supplements, rawhide-only chews, or plant-only pet foods.
9. Education Reimbursement Limit Changes
Primary Reserve members qualify for higher education reimbursement for academic years starting on or after August 1.
The updated support reaches meaningful amounts.
- 75% of eligible education expenses
- Up to $7,500 per academic year
- Up to $30,000 across all primary reserve services
Eligible costs can include tuition, enrollment fees, required books, exams, lab fees, and other mandatory charges.
The higher limits apply only to academic years beginning on or after August 1, 2026. Earlier academic years stay under the previous limits.
10. Electronic Migratory Bird Hunting Permit System
The 2026 electronic Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit becomes available through Environment and Climate Change Canada’s new Regulatory Services Platform on August 1.
The permit system itself migrated to the new platform on July 23, 2026. Environment and Climate Change Canada now runs it through its Regulatory Services Platform.
The new system brings several conveniences.
- Permits are available online 24 hours a day
- Hunters can download, print, or store the permit electronically
- A permit no longer needs a signature to be valid
- Several permits can be bought in one transaction
- Past orders appear in an online dashboard
Physical permits stay available for now but are expected to phase out over time. That phase-out could begin as early as the 2027-2028 hunting season.
This is mainly an administrative update, not a new hunting restriction.
Summary Of Every August 2026 Change and Its Date
The table below summarizes each change, its effective date, and who feels it first.
Date Change Who it affects Aug 1 Higher student grants and loans continue for 2026-27 Students and families Aug 1 For-profit school grant limits; loan cap raised to $40B Private-college students Aug 1 Cosmetic fragrance-allergen labelling expands to 81 Shoppers and cosmetics firms Aug 1 A new tobacco health-warning rotation begins Smokers and retailers Aug 1 2026 migratory bird hunting permit becomes available on new platform Hunters Aug 1 Primary Reserve education reimbursement rises Reservists Aug 4 Foreign Influence Transparency Registry opens Groups with foreign ties Aug 17 Military sexual offences move to civilian courts Armed Forces members Aug 22 New pet-food import certification from Mexico Pet-food importers Aug 24 Real-Time Rail payment rules take effect Banks and consumers August 2026 packs an unusually wide mix of federal changes into a single month.
The safest move is to check any rule that touches your money, your studies, or your business against its official government page.
Bookmark this guide and watch for later Gazette updates since the month is not finished adding rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What new laws take effect in Canada on August 1, 2026?
Six federal changes take effect on August 1, 2026: higher Canada Student Grants and loans continue for the 2026-2027 year; most private for-profit college students lose the full-time grant; cosmetic fragrance-allergen labelling expands from 24 to 81 allergens; a new tobacco health-warning rotation begins; the migratory game bird hunting permit moves fully online; and Primary Reserve education reimbursement rises to 75% of costs (up to $30,000 in a career).
How much is the Canada Student Grant for the 2026-2027 school year?
For 2026-2027, full-time students can receive up to $4,200 per year (about $525 per month of study), part-time students up to $2,520 per year, and students with disabilities $2,800 per year. The maximum federal student loan is $300 per week. These rates apply from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027, and reach roughly 720,000 students.
When does Canada’s Foreign Influence Transparency Registry take effect, and who has to register?
Canada’s Foreign Influence Transparency Registry opens August 4, 2026, under the Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act, overseen by Commissioner Anton Boegman. Anyone in an arrangement with a foreign principal to influence a Canadian political or governmental process must register new arrangements within 14 days and arrangements existing before August 4 by October 3, 2026. Penalties range from $250 to $1 million.
Does Real-Time Rail mean instant bank transfers start in Canada in August 2026?
No, August 24, 2026, is only the date the legal framework takes effect (Payments Canada By-law No. 10 and the Real-Time Rail rules). It does not require banks to offer instant payments to customers that day. Payments Canada expects the consumer-facing launch of instant payments in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Are military sexual-assault cases still handled by the Canadian Armed Forces after August 2026?
No, starting August 17, 2026, amendments to the National Defence Act move jurisdiction over Criminal Code sexual offences allegedly committed in Canada to civilian police, prosecutors, and courts. Courts-martial lose jurisdiction over these offences. The Armed Forces can still act immediately to prevent an offence, make an arrest, or preserve evidence before handing the case to civilian authorities.
What is changing for students at private for-profit colleges in Canada in 2026?
Starting August 1, 2026, most students at private for-profit colleges in Canada lose eligibility for the Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students. For the 2026-2027 year, exemptions apply only to programs training nurses, dental hygienists, early childhood educators, and paramedics. Affected students can still access interest-free Canada Student Loans and other grants, and students at for-profit schools outside Canada also lose federal aid, with transitional protection possible until July 31, 2029.
Do these federal changes override provincial laws on the same topic?
Federal rules apply within federal jurisdiction across the country. Provinces still run their own student aid, benefits, and many other systems, so you may need to follow provincial rules too where both apply.
Will I get the new student grant amount automatically, or do I have to reapply?
You apply once through your provincial or territorial student aid office, which assesses you for federal grants. Confirm your 2026-2027 loan-year details when you renew to see the current amounts.
My program started in July, so which rules apply to me?
The rules tied to your loan year usually govern. These student aid changes apply to the 2026-2027 loan year, which runs from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027.
Fact check: Every date and figure here was checked against the Canada Gazette, federal regulations, and official government pages current to August 1, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not legal or financial advice, and rules can change as new regulations are registered later in August.
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- New Bank of Canada Schedule 2027 And Interest Rate Expectations
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
The Bank of Canada published its official 2027 schedule for policy interest rate announcements on July 27, 2026, confirming eight decision dates spread across the calendar year.
It is important for newcomers, prospective immigrants, and established Canadians to understand how the Bank of Canada’s rate decisions directly affect mortgage payments, borrowing costs, savings returns, and the broader economic environment that shapes job markets and housing affordability across every province.
The schedule arrives at a pivotal moment for monetary policy, with the overnight rate sitting at 2.25% after six consecutive holds and a growing consensus among economists that the Bank’s next move will be a hike rather than a cut.
Governor Tiff Macklem held the rate steady on July 15, 2026, noting that Canada’s economy is showing signs of improvement after stalling for much of the past year and that inflation is projected to ease to the 2% target by early 2027.
The Bank cut rates nine times between June 2024 and October 2025, bringing the overnight rate from a peak of 5.00% down to 2.25%, one of the most aggressive easing cycles among G10 economies.
With the cutting cycle now appearing to be over, the central question for 2027 is when and how fast the Bank will begin raising rates back toward the middle of its estimated neutral range of 2.25% to 3.25%.
This guide covers the complete 2027 announcement schedule, the remaining 2026 dates, the economic context behind the current hold, what major Canadian bank economists are forecasting for 2027, and a decision-by-decision rate outlook for the year ahead.
Table of Contents
Complete 2027 Rate Announcement Schedule
The Bank of Canada confirmed the following eight fixed announcement dates for 2027, all at 9:45 AM Eastern Time.
Four of the eight decisions are accompanied by the quarterly Monetary Policy Report, which contains the Bank’s updated economic forecasts and provides a press conference with the Governor and Senior Deputy Governor.
Date Day Monetary Policy Report Surveys released before decision January 27, 2027 Wednesday Yes BOS and CSCE (January 18) March 3, 2027 Wednesday No — April 28, 2027 Wednesday Yes BOS and CSCE (April 19) June 2, 2027 Wednesday No — July 21, 2027 Wednesday Yes BOS and CSCE (July 12) September 8, 2027 Wednesday No — October 27, 2027 Wednesday Yes BOS and CSCE (October 18) December 8, 2027 Wednesday No — The Financial Stability Report is scheduled for Tuesday, May 18, 2027, at 10:00 AM Eastern Time. MPR dates are the most consequential because they provide the Bank’s full economic projections and allow the governing council to frame any rate change within a detailed analytical narrative, making rate changes more likely at MPR meetings than at interim decisions.
Remaining 2026 Rate Announcement Dates
The Bank also reconfirmed the three remaining 2026 announcement dates, all of which will influence the starting point for 2027.
Date Day Monetary Policy Report September 2, 2026 Wednesday No October 28, 2026 Wednesday Yes December 9, 2026 Wednesday No Bond markets currently price a high probability of no change on September 2, with swap markets assigning approximately 50% odds of a 25-basis-point hike by the October 28 MPR decision.
If the Bank hikes in late 2026, the starting rate for 2027 would be 2.50% rather than 2.25%, which would shift every subsequent prediction in this outlook.
Where The Economy Stands Entering 2027
The July 2026 Monetary Policy Report provides the most current snapshot of where the Bank sees the economy heading.
Canada’s GDP growth stalled through much of 2025 and early 2026 as the economy adjusted to new US tariffs, high uncertainty, and slower population growth driven by reduced immigration targets.
Growth resumed in the second quarter of 2026, with the Bank estimating annualized Q2 GDP at 2.5%, and the sources of expansion are broadening beyond the oil and gas sector.
The Bank projects full-year GDP growth of 0.7% in 2026, rising to 1.8% in both 2027 and 2028.
The unemployment rate was 6.5% in June 2026 and has hovered in a range of 6.5% to 7.0% since late 2024, reflecting ongoing economic slack in the labour market.
Headline CPI inflation hit 3.2% in May 2026, driven almost entirely by gasoline prices linked to the Middle East conflict, before easing to 2.8% in June as a temporary ceasefire brought pump prices down.
Core inflation measures tracked by the Bank of Canada, including the median and trimmed-mean CPI, averaged 1.9% in June 2026, their lowest levels in over five years.
The Bank projects inflation will ease to approximately 2.5% in the second half of 2026 and return to the 2% target by early 2027, assuming oil prices settle between US$70 and US$75 per barrel by mid-2027.
At 2.25%, the overnight rate currently sits at the lower end of the Bank’s estimated neutral range of 2.25% to 3.25%, which is the range where monetary policy neither stimulates nor restrains the economy.
What Major Bank Economists Are Forecasting
The direction of the next rate move is no longer in serious dispute among Canada’s major financial institutions, with most forecasting gradual hikes toward the neutral rate beginning in 2027.
The disagreement is about timing and magnitude.
Institution 2027 rate path forecast Year-end 2027 rate National Bank Hike to 2.50% in Q1, 2.75% in Q2, hold through year-end 2.75% CIBC Economics Hold through H1, hike to 2.50% mid-year, 2.75% by year-end 2.75% RBC Economics Hold through 2026, hike modestly in 2027 2.50%–2.75% Desjardins Begin hiking to 2.75% in 2027 if base case holds 2.75% Scotiabank Hikes could begin late 2026, reach 3.00% by end of 2027 3.00% TD Economics Hold at 2.25% through 2027 and beyond 2.25% Parliamentary Budget Officer 2.50% by mid-2027, 2.75% by year-end 2.75% The consensus clusters around a year-end 2027 rate of 2.75%, which sits at the midpoint of the neutral range.
TD Economics is the notable outlier, forecasting an extended hold based on its view that trade uncertainty and weak productivity will keep the Bank from raising rates.
Scotiabank sits on the hawkish end, forecasting rate hikes could begin as early as late 2026 if oil-driven inflation proves stickier than the Bank’s base case assumes.
Claire Fan, senior economist at RBC Economics, summarized the consensus view by noting that a 2027 rate hike would be a good-news story because it would signal that the economic backdrop is firmer than it is today.
Decision-By-Decision Rate Outlook For 2027
The following projections assume the Bank enters 2027 at 2.25% with inflation near the 2% target and GDP growth tracking the 1.8% forecast from the July 2026 MPR.
If the Bank hikes before January, each subsequent projection shifts accordingly.
January 27, 2027 (MPR): Hold at 2.25%
The January MPR will arrive with limited Q4 2026 GDP data and a new set of economic projections that will shape the Bank’s tone for the year.
The Governing Council will want to confirm that the economic recovery observed in mid-2026 is sustained before beginning normalization, and trade policy uncertainty heading into the spring CUSMA review will reinforce caution.
The MPR language will likely signal that rate increases are on the table if the recovery continues, preparing markets for a move later in the spring.
March 3, 2027: Hold at 2.25%
Non-MPR meetings rarely produce rate changes unless economic conditions shift dramatically between announcement dates.
By March, Q4 2026 GDP data will be available, and the Bank will have a clearer view of whether the recovery broadened through the fall.
A March hold allows the Bank to gather one more quarter of data before the April MPR decision, which provides a much stronger communication framework for any rate change.
April 28, 2027 (MPR): Hike to 2.50% (+25 basis points)
The April MPR is the most probable date for the first rate increase, aligning with the National Bank, CIBC, and Parliamentary Budget Officer forecasts.
By late April, the Bank will have full Q1 2027 labour market data, winter inflation readings, and two quarters of confirmed GDP growth to build the case that the economy no longer needs the stimulus provided by a rate at the bottom of neutral.
If inflation is stable at or near the 2% target and the unemployment rate has declined from the 6.5% range, the conditions for normalization will be met.
The accompanying MPR press conference gives Governor Macklem the platform to explain that a 25-basis-point move is the beginning of a gradual normalization rather than a tightening campaign.
June 2, 2027: Hold at 2.50%
The Bank will likely pause after the April hike to assess its impact on housing activity, consumer spending, and the labour market.
A one-meeting pause between hikes is consistent with the Bank’s communication about being gradual and data-dependent.
July 21, 2027 (MPR): Hike to 2.75% (+25 basis points)
The July MPR is the second most likely window for a rate increase, supported by the broadest range of economist forecasts.
By mid-July, spring housing market data, Q2 GDP estimates, and a full half-year of 2027 inflation data will be available.
If the economy is absorbing the April hike without significant deterioration, the Bank will continue toward the midpoint of neutral at 2.75%.
This rate level aligns with the consensus year-end target from National Bank, CIBC, Desjardins, and the PBO.
September 8, 2027: Hold at 2.75%
The Bank will consolidate at the neutral midpoint and allow summer data to confirm that the economy is performing in line with projections.
October 27, 2027 (MPR): Hold at 2.75%
The October MPR will determine whether further normalization is needed or whether 2.75% is the appropriate resting point for the overnight rate.
If the economy is growing at or above the 1.8% pace projected in the July 2026 MPR and inflation remains anchored at 2%, the Bank may signal a third hike for early 2028 without moving at this meeting.
If growth has softened or global conditions have deteriorated, the Bank will signal an extended hold at 2.75%.
December 8, 2027: Hold at 2.75%
Year-end holds are common because the Bank prefers to make directional changes at MPR meetings where a full economic narrative can accompany the decision.
Under the base case, the overnight rate ends 2027 at 2.75%, 50 basis points above the current level and squarely at the midpoint of the estimated neutral range.
Base Case Rate Path Summary
Date Decision Rate after decision January 27, 2027 Hold 2.25% March 3, 2027 Hold 2.25% April 28, 2027 Hike +25 bps 2.50% June 2, 2027 Hold 2.50% July 21, 2027 Hike +25 bps 2.75% September 8, 2027 Hold 2.75% October 27, 2027 Hold 2.75% December 8, 2027 Hold 2.75% Three Scenarios For Where Rates End 2027
Base case (most likely): 2.75%
Two 25-basis-point hikes at the April and July MPR meetings bring the rate to the neutral midpoint, followed by holds through the rest of the year as the Bank assesses whether further normalization is needed.
Hawkish scenario: 3.00% to 3.25%
If oil prices remain persistently elevated, headline inflation stays above 2.5%, and the labour market tightens faster than expected, the Bank could deliver three or four hikes in 2027, reaching the top of the neutral range by year-end.
This scenario aligns with the Scotiabank forecast and would push variable mortgage rates approximately 75 to 100 basis points higher than current levels.
Dovish scenario: 2.25% to 2.50%
If a global trade war escalates, the Middle East conflict deepens, or Canada’s economic recovery stalls, the Bank could hold at 2.25% for all of 2027 or deliver at most one cautious hike.
This scenario aligns with the TD Economics forecast and would keep mortgage rates near current levels through the year.
What This Means For Mortgage Holders
Variable-rate mortgage holders and those with home equity lines of credit will see their rates move in lockstep with any Bank of Canada rate change, typically within 24 hours of an announcement.
Under the base case of two 25-basis-point hikes, the major bank prime rate would rise from 4.45% to 4.95% by mid-2027, increasing monthly payments on a variable-rate mortgage by approximately $30 per $100,000 of outstanding balance.
Fixed mortgage rates are priced off Government of Canada bond yields rather than the policy rate, so they can move independently and have already begun pricing in expected 2027 hikes.
Approximately one and a half million Canadian mortgage borrowers are expected to renew in 2026 alone, with the final major wave of pandemic-era low-rate mortgages largely passing by the second half of 2027.
The federal mortgage stress test still requires borrowers to qualify at the higher of their contract rate plus 2% or 5.25%, which limits the maximum borrowing amount even in a low-rate environment.
For borrowers using a typical variable mortgage rate, a half-percentage-point increase would add approximately $29 per month for every $100,000 borrowed on a 25-year amortization, or about $30 on a 30-year amortization.
Newcomers planning to buy their first home in Canada should understand that mortgage rates are likely to move higher rather than lower over the next 18 months.
Building Canadian credit history, maintaining stable employment, and saving a sufficient down payment are more important than trying to time interest rate movements.
The 2026-2028 immigration levels plan has reduced population growth, which is easing housing demand pressures in major cities, but affordability remains a challenge in Toronto and Vancouver.
The Canadian Real Estate Association expects national home sales to increase 5.1% in 2026, with the average price rising to $698,881, followed by another 3.5% sales increase in 2027.
Rate increases would moderate this price growth, which is arguably positive for affordability from a newcomer’s perspective, especially in cities where immigration-driven demand previously outpaced supply.
The 2027 rate schedule gives markets, borrowers, and savers eight fixed windows to anticipate and react to monetary policy changes, with the four MPR dates carrying the most weight.
The most likely trajectory is a gradual normalization from 2.25% toward 2.75% through two 25-basis-point hikes at the April and July MPR meetings, consistent with the consensus among National Bank, CIBC, RBC, Desjardins, and the Parliamentary Budget Officer.
Every projection in this article is conditional on the Bank’s own assumptions holding: oil prices settling below US$75, the Middle East conflict not escalating further, US trade policy remaining manageable, and Canada’s economic recovery sustaining its second-half 2026 momentum.
If any of those assumptions break, the rate path could shift materially in either direction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Bank of Canada’s neutral rate and why does it matter for 2027?
The neutral rate is the theoretical interest rate that neither stimulates nor restrains the economy when inflation is at the 2% target and the economy is operating at full capacity. The Bank of Canada estimates the neutral range at 2.25% to 3.25%, and the current overnight rate of 2.25% sits at the very bottom of that range, meaning monetary policy is still providing slight stimulus to the economy. Most economist forecasts for 2027 involve moving the rate toward the middle or upper end of neutral, which would represent a return to normal rather than a restrictive tightening campaign.
How does a Bank of Canada rate change affect GIC and savings account returns?
When the Bank raises the overnight rate, major banks typically increase the interest rates paid on high-interest savings accounts and guaranteed investment certificates within days to weeks of the announcement. A half-percentage-point increase in the overnight rate could improve some savings and GIC offers, although the exact pass-through would vary by institution and product. Savers and retirees relying on fixed-income investments would benefit from rate normalization, unlike the past year, where the extended hold limited yield improvements.
Could the Bank of Canada cut rates again in 2027 instead of hiking?
A return to rate cuts in 2027 is possible but would require a significant economic deterioration, such as a deep trade war, a global financial shock, or a sustained recession in Canada that pushes unemployment above 8%. Swap markets currently assign less than 10% probability to a rate cut before mid-2027, and the Bank’s own projection of 1.8% GDP growth and 2% inflation is inconsistent with the need for further easing. The more realistic downside scenario is an extended hold at 2.25% rather than an outright cut.
Will the 2027 rate schedule affect the Canada Pension Plan or Old Age Security payments?
Bank of Canada rate decisions do not directly affect CPP or OAS payment amounts because those programs are indexed to the Consumer Price Index rather than interest rates. However, higher interest rates can indirectly slow inflation by cooling the economy, which would moderate future CPI-based OAS quarterly adjustments and CPP annual indexation. Seniors holding GICs or high-interest savings accounts inside TFSAs would see improved returns from rate increases, which supplements their government benefit income.
How far in advance should I lock in a mortgage rate before a Bank of Canada announcement?
Most Canadian lenders offer rate holds of 90 to 120 days at no cost and with no commitment to that lender, which means you can secure a rate before any scheduled announcement and still take a better one if the market moves in your favour. If you have a mortgage renewal or purchase closing scheduled within six months of a likely rate increase, securing a hold before the April or July 2027 MPR decisions would protect you from potential increases while preserving your ability to benefit from any unexpected downward movement.
Fact-Checked: The 2027 schedule, remaining 2026 dates, current policy rate, GDP projections, CPI figures, and labour market data are verified against the official Bank of Canada press release, the July 2026 rate decision, the July 2026 Monetary Policy Report, and Statistics Canada CPI releases current to July 28, 2026. Economist forecasts are attributed to their respective institutions as of late July 2026.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and forward-looking analysis only and does not constitute financial, investment, or mortgage advice. Interest rate predictions reflect the author’s assessment of publicly available data and economist consensus as of the publication date. Consult a licensed financial advisor or mortgage professional for guidance specific to your situation.
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- New Express Entry Draw Predictions and CRS Trends For August 2026
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
IRCC closed July 2026 with 8 Express Entry draws across 5 categories, issuing 15,549 invitations to apply for permanent residence in a single month.
That total brings the 2026 year-to-date count to 104,616 invitations across 42 draws, putting this year well ahead of the 98,903 invitations issued across all of 2024.
The pace, however, is showing clear signs of deceleration as IRCC moves through the second half of the year.
August 2026 is expected to bring at least two draw clusters, with the first round of invitations projected for the week starting August 3.
This article breaks down what happened in July, identifies the patterns that shape August predictions, and projects CRS cutoffs and invitation volumes for each draw type across two expected draw windows.
Every projection in this article is based on verified 2026 draw data, pool snapshots, and IRCC’s stated Express Entry policy priorities.
IRCC is not obligated to follow the same draw pattern from month to month, and these predictions should be treated as informed estimates rather than guarantees.
Table of Contents
July 2026 Express Entry Draws’ Recap
IRCC ran two complete draw clusters in July 2026, each following the same sequence of PNP, CEC, and French-language draws within a compressed window.
The first cluster ran from July 6 through July 10 and delivered 8,034 invitations across 4 categories.
The second cluster ran from July 20 through July 23 and delivered 7,515 invitations through the same four-draw structure of PNP, CEC, French-language proficiency, and one smaller occupational category.
Together, the two clusters account for all 15,549 invitations issued in July, with no draws conducted outside those two windows.
July 2026 Express Entry Draws at a Glance
Date Draw Type ITAs CRS Cutoff Jul 6 Provincial Nominee Program 534 708 Jul 7 Canadian Experience Class 2,000 517 Jul 9 French-Language Proficiency 5,000 420 Jul 10 Senior Managers 500 392 Jul 20 Provincial Nominee Program 511 744 Jul 21 Canadian Experience Class 2,000 516 Jul 22 French-Language Proficiency 5,000 399 Jul 23 Skilled Military Recruits 4 368 The CEC draws in July held steady at 2,000 invitations each, confirming the reduced volume trend that began in late March 2026.
CRS cutoffs for CEC remained virtually flat at 517 and 516, consistent with the 514 to 518 band that has defined CEC draws since April.
The French-language draw on July 22 dropped its cutoff to 399, a 21-point decline from the July 9 round despite maintaining the same 5,000-invitation volume.
That decline indicates that the second five-thousand-invitation round reached substantially deeper into the French-language candidate pool after the earlier July draw removed many higher-scoring profiles.
2026 Express Entry Invitations by Category
IRCC has issued 104,616 invitations to apply across 42 Express Entry draws in 2026 as of July 23, compared to 113,988 across all of 2025 and 98,903 across all of 2024.
The table below shows how those invitations break down by draw category.
Category Draws Total ITAs Share Canadian Experience Class 12 45,250 43.3% French-Language Proficiency 8 40,500 38.7% Healthcare and Social Services 2 8,000 7.6% Provincial Nominee Program 14 6,450 6.2% Trades Occupations 1 3,000 2.9% Senior Managers 2 750 0.7% Physicians 2 662 0.6% Skilled Military Recruits 1 4 < 0.1% Total 42 104,616 100% CEC and French-language draws together account for 82% of all invitations issued in 2026, making them the two dominant pathways under the current Express Entry category framework.
CEC invitations at 45,250 have already exceeded the total CEC invitations issued across all of 2025, when IRCC issued 35,850 CEC invitations for the entire year.
That frontloading is a direct consequence of IRCC’s early-2026 strategy of issuing 8,000, 6,000, and 6,000 CEC invitations in the first three rounds to accelerate the conversion of temporary residents to permanent residents.
Invitation Volumes Are Not Equal To Immigration Targets
The 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan sets an annual permanent resident admission target of 380,000, with economic immigration accounting for approximately 63% of all admissions.
Candidates sometimes assume that the number of Express Entry invitations in a year should match these targets, but the two figures measure fundamentally different things.
An invitation to apply is not an approval, and the gap between receiving an ITA and landing as a permanent resident involves several stages where numbers drop.
A portion of ITA recipients never submit their permanent residence applications within the 60-day window, either because their circumstances change or because they cannot assemble the required documents in time.
Among those who do apply, refusal rates vary by program and draw type, and not every application results in a positive decision.
Processing timelines add another layer of separation between ITAs and landings.
The Canadian Experience Class currently carries an average processing time of approximately six to seven months, meaning that many candidates who receive invitations in August 2026 will not receive their permanent residency approval until early to mid-2027.
IRCC must therefore issue more invitations than the number of permanent residents it intends to land in any given year to account for attrition at every stage of the process.
The 104,616 invitations issued so far in 2026 should not be interpreted as meaning that 104,616 people will become permanent residents this year under Express Entry.
Canadian Experience Class Predictions for August 2026
CEC draws have followed a clear downward trajectory in 2026, dropping from 8,000 invitations per round in January to 2,000 per round in the most recent draws.
The table below tracks every CEC draw this year and illustrates both the shrinking invitation volumes and the corresponding CRS movement.
Date ITAs CRS Cutoff Jan 7 8,000 511 Jan 21 6,000 509 Feb 17 6,000 508 Mar 3 4,000 508 Mar 17 4,000 507 Mar 31 2,250 509 Apr 14 2,000 515 Apr 28 2,000 514 May 27 3,000 518 Jun 23 4,000 516 Jul 7 2,000 517 Jul 21 2,000 516 The data shows that CRS cutoffs have stabilized in a narrow 514 to 518 band since April, regardless of whether IRCC issued 2,000 or 4,000 invitations.
This stability reflects a consistent inflow of new high-scoring profiles entering the pool at roughly the same rate that invitations remove them, as explained in our analysis of sticky CRS scores in 2026.
For August 2026, expect CEC draws to continue at 2,000 invitations per round, with CRS cutoffs holding between 515 and 518.
A temporary bump to 3,000 invitations is possible but unlikely given IRCC’s evident intent to moderate the pace in the second half of 2026.
CEC cutoffs dropping below 500 remains unlikely in August because the pool continues to replenish with high-scoring candidates faster than draws can clear them at these reduced volumes.
Provincial Nominee Program Predictions for August 2026
PNP draws in 2026 have shown the widest variation of any draw type, with invitation counts ranging from 264 to 955 and CRS cutoffs swinging between 708 and 805.
The June 22 draw was a clear outlier, issuing 955 invitations at a CRS of 730 after a large batch of provincial nominations entered the pool as documented in our mid-2026 PNP review.
July PNP draws settled back to 534 and 511 invitations, with cutoffs of 708 and 744, reflecting the typical pace after provinces process their backlog of nomination decisions.
For August, expect PNP draws in the range of 400 to 600 invitations per round with CRS cutoffs between 720 and 760.
The CRS cutoff in any given PNP round depends almost entirely on how many fresh nominations provinces have released into the Express Entry pool since the previous draw.
Every provincial nominee receives an automatic 600-point CRS boost, which is why PNP draw cutoffs consistently appear in the 700-plus range.
Candidates considering the PNP pathway should explore Alberta and British Columbia draws and the recently launched Ontario Workforce Priority stream, as all three provinces have remaining allocation for 2026.
French-Language Proficiency Draw Predictions for August 2026
French-language draws have been the highest-volume category-based Express Entry pathway in 2026, accounting for 40,500 invitations across eight draws.
IRCC’s francophone immigration target of 9% of admissions outside Quebec, supported through its category-based selection framework, provides strong policy support for continued French draws through the rest of 2026.
However, the sheer volume of French invitations already issued this year introduces a realistic constraint.
With 104,616 total invitations already on the books, IRCC may moderate the pace of future French draws to avoid overshooting operational targets for the second half of the year.
For August, expect French-language draws in the range of 3,500 to 4,500 invitations per round, a modest reduction from the 5,000 per round seen in July.
CRS cutoffs for French draws should fall between 395 and 415, consistent with the eight-draw average of approximately 405 recorded across all French rounds in 2026.
Candidates who hold TEF or TCF results at NCLC 7 or higher in all four skills remain eligible for French-language draws regardless of their occupation.
Other Category-Based Draws to Watch in August
Beyond the core PNP, CEC, and French draw types, IRCC has conducted category-based draws in healthcare, trades, physicians, senior managers, and military recruits in 2026.
Healthcare draws have appeared twice in 2026 at roughly four-month intervals, with the most recent round on June 25 issuing 4,000 invitations at CRS 475.
If IRCC maintains that cadence, the next healthcare draw would fall in October, making an August healthcare round less likely but not impossible.
The trades category has appeared only once this year, on April 2, when IRCC issued 3,000 invitations at CRS 477.
A second trade draw is overdue and could appear in any draw cluster between now and October.
The senior managers category has appeared twice in 2026 at roughly four-month intervals, making the next round likely in November rather than August.
The physicians’ category also follows a quarterly pattern, with its most recent round on June 24 making an August or September round plausible.
Week-by-Week Predictions for August 2026
Based on IRCC’s July 2026 draw cluster pattern, August is expected to feature two draw windows following the same PNP, CEC, and French sequence seen in recent months.
IRCC is not obligated to follow the same round structure, and draw dates, categories, and volumes can change without notice.
The projections below reflect the most likely outcome based on 2026 data, not a guaranteed schedule.
Projected Draw Cluster: Week of August 3
Expected Day Draw Type Projected ITAs Projected CRS Mon, Aug 3 Provincial Nominee Program 450 – 550 720 – 755 Tue, Aug 4 Canadian Experience Class 2,000 515 – 518 Wed/Thu, Aug 5-6 French-Language Proficiency 3,500 – 4,500 395 – 415 A fourth draw targeting a smaller category such as trades or physicians is possible but not expected in every cluster.
The PNP draw will likely open the cluster, as IRCC has consistently placed PNP rounds at the start of each draw window throughout 2026.
CEC is expected to follow the next day with 2,000 invitations, maintaining the 2,000-invitation volume used in the two July CEC rounds.
The French-language draw will most likely close the cluster, following the precedent set in both July draw clusters.
Projected Draw Cluster: Week of August 17
Expected Day Draw Type Projected ITAs Projected CRS Mon, Aug 17 Provincial Nominee Program 400 – 550 725 – 760 Tue, Aug 18 Canadian Experience Class 2,000 515 – 518 Wed/Thu, Aug 19-20 French-Language Proficiency 3,500 – 4,500 395 – 415 If IRCC follows the same pattern, the second cluster should mirror the first with similar volumes and CRS ranges.
The PNP CRS cutoff in the second cluster may shift depending on whether provinces release a large batch of new nominations between draw windows, as happened between the two July PNP rounds.
A category-based draw targeting healthcare, trades, or physicians could appear in either cluster, but French-language proficiency remains the most probable category-based selection for both windows.
CRS Trend Summary by Draw Type
The table below shows the CRS range for each draw type across all of 2026, along with the projected August range.
Draw Type 2026 CRS Low 2026 CRS High August Projection Canadian Experience Class 507 518 515 – 518 Provincial Nominee Program 708 805 720 – 760 French-Language Proficiency 393 420 395 – 415 Healthcare 467 475 465 – 480* Trades 477 477 470 – 490* Physicians 169 223 180 – 230* *Healthcare, trades, and physicians ranges are contingent on IRCC scheduling a draw in that category during August, which is not guaranteed. What Candidates Can Do Before August Draws
Candidates with CRS scores in the 400 to 475 range should evaluate whether they qualify for category-based draws targeting healthcare, trades, or French-language proficiency, as these categories consistently deliver cutoffs below the CEC threshold.
Booking a TEF or TCF French test is the highest-impact move for candidates in this range, because French draws at CRS 395 to 415 sit roughly 100 points below CEC cutoffs as shown on the official CRS calculation grid.
Provincial nominations remain the most powerful CRS multiplier in the Express Entry system, adding 600 points to a candidate’s base score and effectively guaranteeing an invitation in the next PNP round.
Candidates should explore the Ontario Workforce Priority stream and western Canadian PNP programs, as several provinces still have nomination allocations remaining for 2026.
The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan allocates approximately 63% of the 2026 permanent resident target to economic immigration, with the share rising to approximately 64% in 2027 and 2028.
August 2026 Express Entry draws are expected to follow the same cluster model that has defined the system since March, with PNP, CEC, and French rounds appearing in compressed windows.
CRS cutoffs are unlikely to shift dramatically in either direction unless IRCC makes a significant change to invitation volumes.
Candidates should monitor the official IRCC rounds of invitations page for confirmed draw results as they are published.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can IRCC hold a general all-program Express Entry draw in August 2026?
IRCC conducted nine general invitation rounds in 2024 but has since shifted its recent draw strategy toward program-specific and category-based selections. Recent draw patterns provide no clear indication that IRCC intends to resume general rounds in August 2026. Candidates should plan around CEC, PNP, and category-based draws rather than expecting a general round.
Does receiving a provincial nomination guarantee an Express Entry invitation?
A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to a candidate’s Express Entry profile, which in practice places them well above the PNP draw cutoff. However, the invitation is issued through an Express Entry PNP draw, and the timing depends on when IRCC schedules the next PNP round. Candidates with an accepted provincial nomination are normally positioned well above PNP cutoffs.
Will Express Entry draws pause for system maintenance in August 2026?
IRCC has not announced any system maintenance pauses for August 2026. However, IRCC paused draws for 21 consecutive days in June 2026 without advance notice, so an unannounced gap remains possible at any time. Candidates should keep their profiles current and documents ready to ensure they do not miss a draw during unexpected windows.
How long after receiving an ITA do candidates have to submit their PR application?
Candidates who receive an invitation to apply have exactly 60 calendar days to submit a complete permanent residence application through their Express Entry account. If the 60-day window passes without an application or the candidate formally declining the invitation, the invitation expires and the profile is removed from the pool. The candidate must submit a new Express Entry profile and remain eligible to be considered in future rounds. Preparing documents in advance, including police certificates, medical exams, and credential assessments, is critical because many of these items have their own processing timelines.
Can candidates be invited through both a CEC draw and a category-based draw at the same time?
A candidate can be eligible for multiple draw types simultaneously, but IRCC issues only one invitation to any given profile. If a candidate meets the criteria for both a CEC draw and a French-language draw, they will be invited through whichever draw reaches their score first. Once an invitation is issued, the candidate’s profile is removed from the pool and they cannot receive a second invitation unless the first one expires or is declined.
Fact-Checked: All figures in this article have been verified against the official IRCC rounds of invitations data as of July 31, 2026. Predictions are analytical projections based on 2026 draw patterns and are not confirmed by IRCC.
Disclaimer: This article is published by Immigration News Canada for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant or licensed immigration lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.
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- New Ontario ODSP Payment Of Up To $1,436 Coming This Week
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
The next Ontario Disability Support Program – ODSP payment is confirmed for Friday, July 31, 2026.
This deposit is the first ODSP payment to carry the full 1.9% inflation increase that took effect on July 1, 2026.
A single recipient can now receive up to $1,436 per month for basic needs and shelter combined under the updated provincial rates.
That is a $28 monthly increase over the previous maximum of $1,408 that had been in place since July 2025.
The increase is automatic for all existing recipients and does not require any application, form, or contact with your caseworker.
It marks the fifth consecutive ODSP rate increase since September 2022. Across those five increases, the maximum for a single recipient has risen by approximately 22%, from the pre-increase rate of $1,169 to $1,436.
Not every component of ODSP rose equally, however, and several flat-rate supplements, including the Special Diet Allowance, remain frozen at their previous levels.
Here is everything Ontario residents need to know about the July 31 ODSP payment, including the new rates for every family type, the full 2026 payment schedule, the $1,000 earnings exemption, asset limits, and eligibility rules.
Table of Contents
ODSP Payment Changes on July 1, 2026
Ontario applies an inflation-based adjustment to core ODSP rates every July, and the 2026 adjustment was 1.9%.
This is the fifth consecutive annual increase since the province tied ODSP to inflation in September 2022.
The cumulative rise since September 2022 now exceeds 22%, according to the Ontario government’s ODSP program page.
Before the inflation indexing began, ODSP rates had remained largely stagnant for years despite rising living costs.
The Income Security Advocacy Centre confirmed the updated figures in its July 2026 rates sheet, cross-referenced against the provincial ODSP income support directives.
Unlike ODSP, Ontario Works rates have been frozen at $733 per month for a single adult since 2018 with no inflation adjustment.
New ODSP Rates for July 2026
The ODSP payment is split into two separate components that behave differently in practice.
Basic Needs covers food, clothing, and everyday essentials and is paid as a flat amount regardless of actual spending.
Maximum Shelter covers rent, mortgage, utilities, and housing costs up to a capped limit based on actual expenses.
For a single person, basic needs rose from $809 to $825 per month and maximum shelter increased from $599 to $611.
If your actual housing costs are below the $611 shelter cap, you receive only what you pay rather than the full maximum.
The following table shows the maximum ODSP income-support amounts for common family types effective July 2026.
Actual payments may be lower when verified shelter expenses are below the applicable maximum.
Family situation Maximum 2026 ODSP amount Single recipient $1,436 Couple, one person with a disability $2,148 Couple, both with disabilities Up to $2,416 Single parent with one child under eighteen Up to $1,927 Single parent with two children under eighteen Up to $2,006 Source: Ontario.ca ODSP program page (updated June 30, 2026). What Increased and What Stayed Frozen
The 1.9% adjustment does not apply equally across every ODSP supplement and allowance.
Several flat-rate supports remain frozen at their existing levels despite rising costs for the items they are designed to cover.
The Special Diet Allowance is one of the most significant frozen components, affecting recipients who require medically prescribed diets.
Component Increased Component Increased Basic Needs (all family types) Yes Special Diet Allowance No Maximum Shelter allowance Yes Pregnancy/breast-feeding Nutritional Allowance No Board and lodging amounts Yes Special Boarder Allowance No Long-term care/specialized residence amounts Yes Personal needs allowance No Double-disabled couple cap Yes Remote Communities Allowance No ACSD (now $678/month) Yes Work-related expenses No Recipients who rely on frozen supplements should not expect their total payment to reflect the full 1.9% increase.
All The 2026 ODSP Payment Dates
ODSP deposits land on the last business day of each month throughout the calendar year.
When the last day of the month falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, the payment moves to the preceding business day.
The September 29 date reflects a shift because September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a federal statutory holiday recognized in Ontario.
Payment Date January 30, 2026 February 27, 2026 March 31, 2026 April 30, 2026 May 29, 2026 June 30, 2026 July 31, 2026 August 31, 2026 September 29, 2026 October 30, 2026 November 30, 2026 To be confirmed The December payment date has not been confirmed yet, but Ontario typically issues it earlier in the month to accommodate year-end banking schedules.
Direct-deposit posting times vary by financial institution, and Ontario does not guarantee that every payment will appear within a specific overnight window.
Recipients receiving payments by cheque should allow for Canada Post delivery time and contact their caseworker if the payment does not arrive within a reasonable period.
The $1,000 Earnings Exemption Explained
One of the most common misconceptions about ODSP is that any employment income immediately reduces your payment.
The first $1,000 of net monthly employment income is fully exempt and does not reduce your ODSP payment at all.
Above the $1,000 threshold, ODSP deducts 75% of each additional dollar earned while you keep the remaining 25 cents.
A single recipient receiving the maximum ODSP amount and earning $1,000 in net employment income would generally face no earnings deduction.
They may also receive the $100 Work-Related Benefit, bringing their ODSP payment to as much as $1,536 and their combined monthly income to as much as $2,536, subject to their individual entitlement and actual shelter costs.
Students attending high school or an approved post-secondary institution have their earnings fully exempt regardless of the amount earned.
The earnings exemption makes ODSP one of the most work-friendly disability programs among all Canadian provinces.
For comparison, Ontario Works only exempts the first $200 per month with a 50% clawback above that threshold.
ODSP Compared to Ontario Works
The gap between ODSP and Ontario Works has widened significantly because only ODSP receives annual inflation adjustments.
Ontario Works has been frozen at $733 per month for a single adult since 2018, covering the eighth consecutive year without any increase.
Since 2018, prices in Ontario have risen by approximately 25%, meaning Ontario Works purchasing power has fallen dramatically.
Feature ODSP Ontario Works Maximum (single) $1,436/month $733/month Earnings exemption $1,000/month fully exempt $200/month; 50% clawback above Asset limit (single) $40,000 $10,000 Inflation indexed Yes (annually in July) No (frozen since 2018) Disability requirement Yes No The Income Security Advocacy Centre estimates that a single adult on Ontario Works has effectively lost nearly $140 per month in real purchasing power since 2018.
ODSP Rate Increase History Since 2022
Ontario increased core ODSP rates by 5% in September 2022, raising the maximum for a single recipient from $1,169 to $1,228.
The province then began applying annual inflation-based adjustments every July.
Across the five increases, the single-person maximum has risen by approximately 22.8% from the pre-September 2022 rate of $1,169 to the July 2026 maximum of $1,436.
Effective Date Increase New Single Max September 2022 5.0% $1,228 July 2023 6.5% $1,308 July 2024 4.5% (approx.) $1,368 July 2025 2.8% $1,408 July 2026 1.9% $1,436 The 1.9% adjustment in July 2026 is the lowest single increase in the series so far, reflecting moderating inflation in Ontario throughout 2025.
Canada Disability Benefit Stacks on Top of ODSP
Ontario has formally exempted the federal Canada Disability Benefit from counting as income for ODSP purposes.
This means eligible recipients can collect both ODSP and the CDB in full without one payment reducing the other.
The CDB maximum increased from $200 to $204.20 per month under a 2.1% CPI indexation effective with the July 16, 2026 deposit.
A single ODSP recipient also qualifying for the maximum CDB can receive up to $1,640.20 per month in combined support.
To qualify for the CDB, you must hold a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate from the Canada Revenue Agency and be aged 18 to 64.
The CDB is not taxable, does not need to be reported on your annual return, and is administered by Service Canada.
ODSP Asset Limits for 2026
The liquid asset limit for a single ODSP applicant or recipient is $40,000.
For a couple, the limit is $50,000 with an additional allowance for each dependent child in the household.
These limits are significantly higher than the $10,000 single-person cap under Ontario Works.
Several major assets are fully exempt from the calculation, including your primary residence, one vehicle, and all RDSP holdings.
Prepaid funeral arrangements are exempt from the ODSP asset calculation, with no prescribed maximum, provided the funds remain committed to the prepaid funeral.
An inheritance or lump-sum payment received without advance planning can push assets above the $40,000 threshold and suspend benefits.
Anyone expecting a substantial inheritance or lump-sum payment should obtain advice from a qualified lawyer familiar with ODSP rules before receiving the money.
Depending on how the funds are structured, held and used, trust and other asset exemptions may be available.
Who Qualifies for ODSP
To qualify for ODSP income support, you must be an Ontario resident aged 18 or older and meet the financial need criteria.
You must have a substantial physical or mental disability that is expected to last one year or more.
The disability must create a significant barrier to employment, daily living activities, or community participation.
The application involves two parts: a financial eligibility review handled by your local ODSP office and a disability determination assessed provincially.
The application does not have a single 90-day timeline from initial contact to final approval.
If no additional information is required, ODSP says the initial financial-eligibility decision may be made within 15 business days.
Applicants then have 90 calendar days to submit their completed Disability Determination Package, and the Disability Adjudication Unit says it will normally issue its decision letter within 90 business days after receiving the completed package.
Applicants can receive Ontario Works payments as interim financial support while waiting for the ODSP decision.
CPP Disability recipients, people aged 65 or older without OAS, and those with qualifying letters from Developmental Services Ontario can bypass the disability adjudication step.
What to Do if Your ODSP Payment Does Not Arrive on Time
If your payment does not appear in your bank account on the scheduled date, wait a few business days before taking action.
Bank posting times can vary depending on your financial institution, especially around weekends and statutory holidays.
Log into your MyBenefits account to check whether a payment was issued and look for any holds or changes on your file.
Delays or holds may result from banking-information changes, unresolved eligibility verification, unreported changes in circumstances, income-reporting issues or an administrative hold on the recipient’s file.
If the payment still has not arrived after several business days, contact your ODSP caseworker directly for a status update.
Setting up direct deposit through your caseworker or MyBenefits account is the fastest way to receive ODSP payments and avoid mail delays.
The July 31, 2026 ODSP deposit delivers the first payment at the new 1.9% indexed rate for more than 500,000 Ontario recipients.
Combined with the federal Canada Disability Benefit and other income-tested supports, total monthly income for eligible recipients is now higher than at any point since ODSP began.
Set up direct deposit, keep your MyBenefits profile updated, and file your income tax return every year to protect your eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can a person receiving ODSP also apply for subsidized housing through municipal waitlists in Ontario?
Yes, ODSP recipients are eligible to apply for subsidized housing through their local service manager or housing authority. Receiving ODSP does not disqualify you from municipal housing waitlists, and a subsidized unit can significantly reduce your shelter costs. However, waitlists in major Ontario cities often span several years. Your ODSP shelter allowance is adjusted to reflect your actual housing costs once you move into subsidized housing, which means the shelter portion of your payment may decrease to match the lower rent.
Does receiving a financial gift from a family member affect ODSP eligibility?
ODSP generally exempts up to $10,000 in gifts and voluntary payments during any 12-month period for each member of the benefit unit. Amounts above that limit are not automatically deducted in every situation. Additional exemptions may apply when money is used for approved disability-related items or services, an RDSP or RESP contribution, a principal residence, an exempt vehicle, or first and last month’s rent. Gifts should be reported promptly because any non-exempt amount may be treated as income or an asset.
What happens to ODSP health benefits if a recipient starts working full-time and earns too much to qualify for income support?
An ODSP recipient who becomes financially ineligible for income support because of employment, paid training or self-employment may qualify for the Transitional Health Benefit if comparable employer coverage is unavailable. There is no fixed 36-month limit. Eligible recipients may continue receiving the benefit until comparable health coverage becomes available through their employer, subject to continued eligibility and annual verification.
Are Registered Disability Savings Plan withdrawals counted as income that reduces ODSP payments?
No, RDSP assets and withdrawals are fully exempt from the ODSP income and asset tests. This makes the RDSP one of the most valuable long-term savings tools for ODSP recipients, because contributions, government grants, bonds, and investment growth can all accumulate without affecting your monthly payment or eligibility. The federal government also contributes matching Canada Disability Savings Grants and Canada Disability Savings Bonds into eligible RDSPs, further increasing the benefit of having one while on ODSP.
How does the ODSP medical review process work, and how often does it happen?
ODSP may assign a medical review date when the Disability Adjudication Unit determines that a person’s condition may improve. There is no universal two-to-five-year review schedule, and some recipients are approved without a future medical review date. When a Medical Review Package is issued, the recipient generally has 90 calendar days to submit it or request an extension. Financial eligibility is reviewed separately as circumstances change or when ODSP requests updated information; there is no standard 24-month financial-review rule applying to every ODSP recipient.
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- Mark Carney Unaware Of Student Hunger Strike, Smith Tells Them To Leave Canada
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
Prime Minister Mark Carney publicly admitted he had no knowledge of an ongoing hunger strike by international students in Calgary when he was asked whether his government is prepared to deport them.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, standing beside him at a press conference in Red Deer on July 29, 2026, gave a more direct answer.
Smith said that international students whose visas have expired and who have not secured permanent residency “need to go home.”
The exchange happened during a media availability tied to an upcoming Alberta referendum on immigration that will put nine questions to voters on October 19, 2026.
A reporter from Juno News asked Carney directly whether he was prepared to deport the Portage College graduates who have been staging a hunger strike in Calgary to protest mass post-graduation work permit refusals issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada this summer.
Carney responded that he was not familiar with the specific case but acknowledged that a process exists for individuals who do not have authorization to remain in Canada and who do not have a right to claim asylum.
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What Carney Said About Immigration Control
Before the Portage College question came up, Carney used the press conference to make broader claims about his government’s track record on immigration since taking office roughly 16 months ago, building on themes from the First Ministers’ Meeting held in Charlottetown on July 23.
He stated that his government has “taken back control” of immigration after inheriting a system where the levels of foreign students, temporary workers, and asylum seekers had grown far beyond what was planned.
According to Carney, the flow of asylum seekers into Canada is now down by roughly one-third compared to the period before his government took power.
He said temporary foreign workers are down by approximately half, and the number of new international students arriving in Canada has dropped by about two-thirds.
Those reductions align broadly with the federal government’s 2026 Immigration Departmental Plan, which projects new temporary resident arrivals of 385,000 for 2026, representing a 43% reduction from the 2025 level of 673,650.
Carney argued that restoring control over the numbers has created room for a policy discussion that was not possible when arrivals were overshooting targets by half a million to a million people in any given period.
He framed the current moment as an opportunity for first ministers and premiers to discuss how to select economic migrants based on the skills that provinces actually need, a point that connects directly to the proposed Express Entry overhaul currently under public consultation.
Mark Carney Unfamiliar With The Portage College Crisis
The Juno News reporter, identified as Alexa, asked a pointed question about whether the Prime Minister was prepared to deport the students of Portage College who are on a hunger strike to stay in Canada despite having no permit to remain.
Carney said he was not familiar with the details of the case.
He acknowledged that processes exist for handling individuals who are in Canada without authorization and who do not have a valid asylum claim, and he said those processes need to be followed.
The students at the centre of this crisis are mostly graduates of non-credit continuing education programs delivered by the Canadian Institute of Osteopathic Therapy in Calgary under a partnership with Portage College.
Starting in late June 2026, IRCC began issuing refusal letters stating that their programs were classified as non-credit and therefore did not meet the eligibility criteria for a post-graduation work permit under regulation R205(c)(ii).
The department updated its PGWP eligibility webpage on June 24, 2026, to explicitly state that non-credit programs, with the exception of certain flight school programs, do not qualify for a PGWP.
IRCC maintains that this was a clarification of an existing rule rather than a new policy change, but affected graduates say they enrolled and completed their programs long before the clarification appeared online.
An estimated 480 graduates from Portage College partner-delivered programs have received refusals, with community organizers claiming that up to 1,500 graduates in Calgary may be affected.
Roughly 1,000 former students have been protesting outside IRCC offices in Calgary, and five to six graduates have escalated the protests into a round-the-clock hunger strike demanding that IRCC review their rejected applications.
Danielle Smith Tells Students Without Status To Go Home
The same reporter also asked Alberta Premier Danielle Smith whether she was prepared to start decertifying diploma mills in the province.
Smith pushed back on the framing of the question, saying she would not describe Portage College as a diploma mill.
She acknowledged that unscrupulous operators have set up diploma-granting programs in the past that took advantage of students, and she suggested that Portage College may have “overstated the pathway to permanent residency” for its international graduates.
Smith then stated plainly that if students come to Canada on an international student visa and that visa expires without them obtaining permanent residency, they need to leave the country.
At the same time, she qualified that statement by noting that if those students have skills that Alberta needs, the province should be positioned to offer them a pathway to permanent residency.
Alberta Has 6,400 PNP Spots Against 40,000 Applicants
Smith used the press conference to draw attention to a major structural gap in how Canada allocates provincial nominee program spots.
She said Alberta currently has approximately 6,400 spots available through its provincial nominee program for permanent residency.
Against that allocation, roughly 40,000 people have applied to the province for permanent residency, creating a gap that leaves tens of thousands of temporary residents without a clear pathway from their work permit to permanent status.
Smith compared Alberta’s allocation unfavourably with Quebec, which is able to select approximately 45,000 of its permanent residents through a separate program governed by the Canada-Quebec Accord.
She argued that Alberta needs significantly more autonomy to make its own immigration decisions and that a greater allocation would allow the province to address the pressures that are generating headlines across the country.
If the province were able to select more of its own nominees, Smith suggested, it could create clearer pathways for graduates whose programs lead to jobs that cannot be filled by Alberta workers, reducing the kind of uncertainty that has pushed the Portage College graduates to protest.
What This Means For International Students In Canada
The exchange in Red Deer highlights a widening gap between the pace of federal immigration enforcement and the reality that many international students face on the ground in 2026.
Carney’s admission that he was unaware of the hunger strike is notable because the Portage College PGWP refusals have been a developing story for weeks, covered across Canadian media outlets and generating a Change.org petition calling on IRCC to halt all refusals and reopen previously denied files.
Smith’s willingness to publicly state that students without status should leave Canada puts her in the position of giving a harder answer than the Prime Minister himself was prepared to offer at the same event.
The broader backdrop includes the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, which holds permanent resident admissions at 380,000 annually and projects a sharp reduction in temporary residents entering the country.
International student arrivals have plunged dramatically since the study permit cap was introduced in 2024, with new arrivals falling by as much as 97% in certain months compared to the peak.
The federal government’s Bill C-12 asylum reforms, which became law in March 2026, have also expanded the government’s enforcement powers over individuals whose immigration status has lapsed.
For graduates who received PGWP refusals, the options are narrowing as their temporary status runs out and Express Entry draw volumes slow for the second half of 2026.
The Alberta Referendum Adds Another Layer Of Pressure
The press conference in Red Deer was triggered by questions about Alberta’s upcoming October 19 referendum, which will ask voters nine questions on immigration and constitutional reform.
The first question asks whether Albertans support the provincial government taking increased control over immigration to decrease levels, prioritize economic migration, and give Alberta residents first priority on new jobs.
Additional questions, detailed on the Alberta Referendum 2026 government website, address whether the province should charge temporary residents for health care and education services and whether temporary residents should need to establish 12 months of Alberta residency before qualifying for provincial benefits.
The referendum results will be non-binding, but a strong vote in favour of provincial control would give Smith significant political leverage in negotiations with Ottawa over how PNP allocations and immigration authority are distributed.
For the roughly 1,500 Portage College graduates caught in the PGWP refusal wave, the referendum represents an additional layer of uncertainty about whether Alberta will become a more or less welcoming destination for international graduates in the years ahead.
What Affected Portage College Graduates Should Do Now
Portage College has stated on its official PGWP updates page that it has no involvement in the review, assessment, or determination of individual immigration applications and cannot reverse IRCC’s PGWP decisions.
The college stopped issuing letters of support on July 15, 2026, after receiving legal advice that such letters would not be relevant to IRCC’s assessment of PGWP applications.
Affected graduates should retain all original documents, including their Letter of Acceptance, transcripts, tuition invoices, and any correspondence from Portage College or its partner institutions.
Immigration professionals reviewing files have noted that not all Portage College graduates are in the same position, as eligibility may vary depending on whether the program was delivered through the main campus, through the CIOT Calgary partnership, or through another partner site.
Two students who completed programs with the same diploma name may receive entirely different decisions depending on the credit classification of their specific program stream.
The press conference in Red Deer captured two distinct approaches to the same crisis unfolding in Calgary.
Carney offered process and distance, while Smith offered directness and a conditional pathway.
Neither answer provides immediate relief for the graduates whose post-graduation work permits have been refused.
What happens next depends on whether IRCC reviews the refusals, whether affected students pursue legal remedies, and whether the federal and provincial governments reach an agreement on expanding Alberta’s PNP allocation before the October referendum.
For now, the hunger strike outside IRCC’s Calgary offices continues, and the students at the centre of this dispute remain in legal limbo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Did Mark Carney say he would deport the Portage College students?
Carney did not directly say he would deport them. He said he was not familiar with the specific case but acknowledged that a process exists for people who are in Canada without authorization and who do not qualify for asylum and that this process needs to be followed.
What exactly did Danielle Smith say about the students?
Smith said international students whose visas have expired and who have not obtained permanent residency need to leave Canada. She also said Portage College is not a diploma mill but may have overstated the pathway to permanent residency for its graduates. She added that if those students have skills Alberta needs, the province should be able to offer them a PR pathway through an expanded provincial nominee program.
How many students are affected by the PGWP refusals at Portage College?
Immigration professionals estimate that at least 480 graduates of Portage College partner-delivered programs have received formal PGWP refusals, with community organizers claiming up to 1,500 may be affected across Calgary and Edmonton.
Why are these PGWP applications being refused?
IRCC is classifying the affected programs as non-credit, which disqualifies them from PGWP eligibility under regulation R205(c)(ii). The department updated its PGWP eligibility webpage on June 24, 2026, to explicitly state this, though IRCC maintains the rule itself has not changed. Affected students say they enrolled and completed their programs before the clarification appeared and were led to believe they would qualify.
What is the Alberta immigration referendum about?
Alberta will hold a non-binding referendum on October 19, 2026, asking voters nine questions on immigration control, services for temporary residents, and constitutional reform. The first question asks whether Albertans support the provincial government taking increased control over immigration levels and prioritizing economic migration.
Fact-Checked: All statements attributed to the Prime Minister and the Premier of Alberta in this article are sourced from the joint press conference held in Red Deer, Alberta, on July 29, 2026. Background details have been verified against official IRCC and Portage College communications published through July 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant or licensed immigration lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.
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- New Canadian Passport Renewal Changes Now In Effect
Last Updated On 6 December 2022, 12:05 AM EST (Toronto Time)
The Government of Canada has officially removed the cap on online passport renewal applications, effective July 28, 2026.
Every eligible adult Canadian citizen whose home and mailing address are in Canada can now renew a passport entirely online without competing for a limited number of daily slots.
The application, a commercially taken digital passport photo and payment can all be submitted electronically through the IRCC Portal on Canada.ca.
Mail-in and in-person services remain available for those who prefer or need them.
Online Canadian passport renewal is not new; IRCC began a limited rollout to a restricted number of eligible adults in December 2024.
What changed yesterday is that the daily application cap has been permanently eliminated, opening the service nationwide to all qualifying applicants at once.
The eligibility rules themselves have not changed, and that is where this gets complicated.
Not every Canadian passport holder qualifies, and certain applicants who try the online route will trigger an irreversible cancellation of their current passport before they even know whether the renewal will be approved.
Understanding exactly who is eligible, what the processing timeline actually looks like and what happens to your existing passport the moment you click submit could save you from a serious travel disruption this summer.
This article explains every detail confirmed by the official IRCC announcement and the Canada.ca eligibility page.
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What Changed for Canadian Passport Renewals on July 28
The Government of Canada announced on July 28, 2026, that online passport renewal is now available to all eligible adult Canadians in Canada.
The announcement was made in Vancouver by the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, refugees, and Citizenship.
The single most important change is the removal of the application limit.
Since the service launched in December 2024, IRCC had been capping the number of people who could start an online renewal application each day.
The cap reset twice daily, at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and applicants who missed the window had to try again later.
That restriction is now gone. Any eligible adult can create an account through the IRCC Portal and begin their renewal at any time without hitting a capacity wall. The underlying eligibility requirements have not changed.
IRCC has also emphasized that this expansion is part of a broader push to modernize passport services.
Earlier improvements include the online passport application status checker, expanded access to in-person 10-business-day service at select Service Canada Centres, and the 30-business-day processing guarantee that took effect on April 1, 2026.
The passport changes were among the 10 major immigration changes that reshaped April 2026.
Quick Answers About the Canadian Passport Renewal Expansion
Question Answer When did the expansion take effect? July 28, 2026 Who can use it? Eligible adult Canadian citizens living in Canada What was removed? The daily limit on online renewal applications Can child passports be renewed online? No Standard processing time Up to 20 business days, plus mailing time Is urgent or express service available online? No Is a commercial digital photo required? Yes Is the current passport cancelled after applying? Yes, immediately after the online application is submitted Can applicants change their name or gender identifier? No Are mail and in-person applications still available? Yes Full Online Passport Renewal Eligibility Checklist
Not every Canadian passport holder qualifies for online renewal. Applicants must satisfy every requirement on this list, not just some of them.
Meeting most but not all of the criteria means the application cannot proceed online.
- You are renewing your own passport, not someone else’s.
- Your home address and mailing address are both in Canada.
- You will be in Canada to receive the new passport by mail.
- Your existing passport is already expired or will expire within the next six months.
- You do not need the passport for the next 20 business days, plus mailing time.
- You are keeping the same name, date of birth, place of birth and gender identifier that appear on your current passport.
- Your current passport is not damaged, seized or surrendered.
- Your current passport does not contain an observation, which is a note on a separate page explaining special circumstances such as a name that was too long to print in full.
- You are not attempting to use a previously reported lost or stolen passport that was later found.
- Your previous passport was issued when you were at least 16 years old.
- It is a regular blue Canadian passport.
- It was valid for either five or ten years.
- It displays your place of birth.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
Every single requirement must be met. If even one condition does not apply to your situation, you must renew by mail or in person instead.
Who Cannot Renew a Canadian Passport Online
The online renewal service is specifically designed for straightforward adult renewals where no personal information is changing. The following applicants must use a different method.
- Children under 16, because child passports cannot be renewed at all; a new child passport application must be submitted each time until the child qualifies for an adult passport.
- First-time adult passport applicants who have never held a Canadian passport.
- Canadians living outside Canada, since IRCC does not currently deliver passports renewed online to addresses outside the country.
- People whose passport expires more than six months from the application date.
- People changing their name, date of birth, place of birth or gender identifier.
- People whose passport is damaged, seized or surrendered.
- People whose passport contains an observation.
- People who need urgent, express or 10-business-day service.
- Applicants whose previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
- Applicants whose previous passport was issued before they turned 16.
The child passport point deserves extra emphasis for families. There is no renewal pathway for a child’s passport.
Parents must submit a new application with two printed photos signed by a guarantor each time until the child reaches age 16 and qualifies for an adult passport.
Critical Warning: Your Current Passport Is Cancelled Immediately
This is the most consequential rule nobody is talking about, the entire online renewal process and the one most likely to catch travellers off guard.
The moment you submit an online passport renewal application, your existing passport is cancelled. It is no longer valid for travel, even if it has months of validity remaining.
You cannot retrieve it, reactivate it, or use it at a border crossing, airport or embassy appointment after the application is submitted.
If you have a trip planned in the next 20 business days plus mailing time, do not apply online.
People who need their passport sooner must apply in person at a Service Canada Centre or passport office that offers 10-business-day, express or urgent service.
This is especially critical for Canadians booking summer travel and those dealing with airfare changes and short booking windows.
How the Online Passport Renewal Process Works
The online renewal process involves the following steps, each completed through the IRCC Portal.
- Visit Canada.ca and confirm you meet every eligibility requirement listed above.
- Register for an IRCC Portal account or sign in with your existing GCKey credentials; two-factor authentication is required.
- Complete the renewal application form online, entering your personal details and current passport information.
- Upload your commercial digital passport photo in JPEG or JPG format.
- Provide the photographer’s or studio’s name, address and the date the photo was taken.
- Provide the names and contact details of your references; an adult renewal does not require a guarantor.
- Pay the applicable passport fee online.
- Submit the application; your current passport is cancelled at this point.
- Track the status of your application through real-time updates in your IRCC Portal account.
- Receive the new passport by mail at your Canadian address.
IRCC provides status updates as the application moves through processing, which is a feature not available for mail-in applications.
This is one practical advantage the online channel offers beyond the convenience of not visiting a Service Canada Centre.
Digital Passport Photo Requirements for Online Renewal
The digital photo is where most online renewal applications are expected to encounter rejection. You cannot upload a selfie, a home photograph or a scanned copy of a printed passport photo.
The image must be taken in person by a commercial photographer and supplied as the original digital file.
The following specifications apply to every digital passport photo uploaded for online renewal.
Specification Requirement File format JPEG or JPG only Aspect ratio 3:2 portrait orientation Minimum resolution 1,800 pixels high by 1,200 pixels wide Maximum resolution 4,500 pixels high by 3,000 pixels wide File size Between 200 KB and 5 MB Face measurement Chin to crown must be 45% to 50% of the photo height Taken within Six months before the application date Background Plain white or light-coloured Expression Neutral, eyes open, mouth closed Lighting Uniform, no shadows, glare or flash reflections Colour Colour or black and white The photo must remain completely unaltered. Filters, AI modifications, facial retouching, background replacement, cropping around the head and shoulders, sharpness adjustments and colour corrections of any kind will result in rejection.
When you upload the photo, you must also enter the studio or photographer’s name, address and the date the photo was taken.
If you are planning ahead, ask your photographer for both a digital copy and a printed copy so you have a fallback if the online route does not work for you.
Current Canadian Passport Renewal Fees
Passport fees increased on March 31, 2026, for the first time since 2013. The current fees for Canadians living in Canada are listed below. There is no separate or discounted fee for online renewal.
Passport Type Current Fee (CAD) Five-year adult passport (age 16 and older) $122.50 Ten-year adult passport (age 16 and older) $163.50 Five-year child passport (under age 16) $58.50 These fees took effect on March 31, 2026, and will now be adjusted annually under the Service Fees Act to keep pace with inflation.
The annual adjustment is tied to the All-Items Consumer Price Index for Canada. This was covered in detail in our earlier report on the two passport rules that took effect in April 2026.
Processing Times and When Your Passport Is Cancelled
Online passport renewals follow a service standard of up to 20 business days. Mailing time is additional and is not included in that estimate.
This is the same processing standard that applies to simplified adult renewals submitted at most Service Canada Centres and by mail.
IRCC has not stated that online renewal applications are processed faster than mail-in applications. The 20-business-day timeline applies equally to both channels.
Your current passport is cancelled after the online application is submitted. This point appears here a second time because it is directly tied to the processing timeline.
If you apply online and your passport is cancelled, you will have no valid travel document for at least 20 business days plus however long Canada Post takes to deliver the new one.
Online applicants do receive real-time status updates during processing, which provides visibility that mail-in applicants do not have. However, tracking does not accelerate processing.
Online renewal is not an urgent, express or 10-business-day service. Canadians who need a passport faster must apply in person at a Service Canada Centre or passport office that offers expedited options.
The latest IRCC processing times show that passport services continue to operate within their published standards.
The 30-Business-Day Refund Guarantee
A separate federal passport guarantee took effect on April 1, 2026.
Under this guarantee, a full passport or travel document fee refund is issued automatically when the processing of a complete application exceeds 30 business days.
Processing starts when the complete application is received. Mailing time is not included in the 30-business-day count.
This guarantee is distinct from the 20-business-day online service standard. The 20-day figure is IRCC’s target processing window.
The 30-day figure is the threshold at which the government must refund your fee. Do not confuse the two.
What to Do When Travel Is Approaching
If you have a trip coming up and your passport is expired or nearing expiration, your decision depends on when you leave.
- If your departure is more than 20 business days away, plus a buffer for mailing, online renewal may be feasible, but your current passport will be cancelled immediately upon application.
- If your departure is within the next 10 to 20 business days, apply in person at a Service Canada Centre that offers 10-business-day service.
- If your departure is within the next two to nine business days, seek express service at a passport office.
- If your departure is within the next business day, urgent pickup service may be available at select passport offices.
Additional fees apply for urgent and express service. Under the new fee schedule, urgent pickup costs $125.75 on top of the standard passport fee. Weekend or statutory holiday service costs $383.50.
Canadians heading to the United States should also review our reporting on the five travel rules for entering the U.S. in 2026 and the latest Canada travel advisory for the United States before finalizing plans.
Do You Still Need a Guarantor or References?
An adult passport renewal does not require a guarantor. This applies to online, mail-in, and in-person renewals equally.
However, renewal applicants still need qualifying references. You will be asked to provide the names and contact information of people who can confirm your identity.
Those references should be reachable by IRCC if contacted during processing.
These two terms are not interchangeable. A guarantor certifies the identity of a first-time applicant and signs the back of a printed photo.
References are people listed on a renewal application who can be contacted to verify your identity.
Renewing by Mail or In Person
The expansion of online renewal does not eliminate the other two channels.
Canadians can still renew by downloading the renewal form from Canada.ca, completing it by hand, attaching two printed photos and mailing everything to the Passport Program office.
In-person service is available at Service Canada Centres and passport offices across the country.
Select locations offer 10-business-day service, which is the fastest standard option.
Express and urgent services are available only at passport offices in select cities.
Canadians applying for a passport from outside Canada must do so by mail or by visiting a Government of Canada office abroad.
Online renewal is not available for addresses outside Canada.
Fraud Warning: Use Only Official Passport Pages
The timing of this expansion coincides with a federal enforcement action against alleged passport service fraud.
On July 28, 2026, the same day as the online renewal expansion announcement, the Competition Bureau disclosed that criminal charges had been laid before the Ontario Court of Justice against two Ontario individuals.
They are alleged to have operated a business under the names Passport Online and Passport Express, using a website and online advertisements that allegedly misled Canadians into believing they were dealing directly with the Government of Canada for expedited passport services.
The charges include offences under the deceptive marketing provisions of the Competition Act, as well as Criminal Code charges of fraud over $5,000 and possession of proceeds of crime.
The alleged conduct took place between 2016 and 2020. These allegations have not been proven in court. York Regional Police laid the charges on July 22, 2026, on behalf of the Competition Bureau.
This development is a reminder that no unofficial company can guarantee government approval, bypass official processing times or provide legitimate passport services on behalf of the federal government.
Canadians should verify that they are on an official Canada.ca page before entering any personal or payment information.
The only legitimate portal for online passport renewal is the IRCC Portal, accessible through Canada.ca.
The expanded online Canadian passport renewal system is live and the application cap is gone.
Eligible adult Canadian citizens can now renew from anywhere in Canada without competing for a limited number of daily slots.
But eligibility is strict, your current passport is cancelled the moment you apply, and the processing timeline has not shortened.
Before you apply, verify your eligibility directly on Canada.ca. Make sure you have no travel in the next 20 business days plus mailing time.
Get your commercial digital passport photo taken before you start the application. And confirm you are on an official government page before entering any personal information.
For the latest developments on Canadian immigration news, Express Entry draws, IRCC processing times, and provincial nominee program updates, save this page and return regularly as policies evolve throughout 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I renew my Canadian passport online if I am currently outside Canada but plan to return before it arrives?
No, IRCC requires that both your home address and mailing address are in Canada at the time you apply. The online system does not deliver passports to addresses outside the country. You would need to return to Canada first and apply from a Canadian address or contact a Government of Canada office abroad to submit a mail-in application.
What happens if my online passport renewal application is rejected after my current passport has already been cancelled?
Once you submit the application, your existing passport is cancelled regardless of the outcome. If IRCC rejects your online application for any reason, including a non-compliant digital photo, you will need to submit a new application through another channel, either by mail or in person. You will not have a valid passport during this period, so you should not have imminent travel plans when applying.
Does the 30-business-day refund guarantee apply to online passport renewal applications?
Yes, the federal passport guarantee that took effect on April 1, 2026, applies to all complete passport applications regardless of how they are submitted. If IRCC takes longer than 30 business days to process a complete online renewal application, the passport fee is refunded automatically. Mailing time does not count toward the 30 days.
Will my renewed passport have the same passport number as my current one?
No, a renewed passport is a completely new document with a new passport number, a new expiry date and a new photo. Any visas, entry stamps or travel authorizations tied to your old passport number may need to be updated with the issuing authorities. If you hold a valid visa from another country linked to your old passport, check with that country’s embassy or consulate about transfer procedures before applying for renewal.
Can I choose between a five-year and a ten-year passport when renewing online?
Yes, as long as you are 16 or older. The online system allows you to select either a five-year passport at $122.50 or a ten-year passport at $163.50. On a per-year basis, the ten-year option costs approximately $16.35 per year compared to $24.50 per year for the five-year passport. It also means fewer renewals and fewer encounters with future fee increases, since passport fees are now indexed annually to inflation.
Fact-Checked: All claims in this article have been verified against the official IRCC news release published on July 28, 2026, the Canada.ca online passport renewal eligibility page, the official passport fee schedule, and the Competition Bureau announcement dated July 28, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Passport eligibility is determined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada on a case-by-case basis. Verify your eligibility directly on Canada.ca before applying.
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